Princes Park => Robert Heatley Stand => Topic started by: crashlander on March 06, 2026, 10:44:35 am
Title: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: crashlander on March 06, 2026, 10:44:35 am
I hate Thursday night football. Not only can't I get to it often enough to matter, but we lose the vast majority of the games. I can think of only one game that we've won that I haven't got to, and only a couple of wins in the few that I could get to.
Then there was last night, where we appear to have improved in no way. We ran out of gas. Our initial strategies might have been OK, but we don't react to changes in the game. Our disposal to our forwards was questionable. Our match-ups didn't work. We didn't stop the opposition play makers from having an influence. When Sydney got on top in the middle, we were dead meat.
So, what can we do about it? Well, Richmond are no Sydney, so hopefully we can find something. If we lose this one, we are in serious trouble.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: crashlander on March 06, 2026, 11:15:22 am
What can we do for next week?
[1] Plan to take Nankervis out of the picture. He isn't a jumper, so he won't be able to jump all over Pitto and Reidy, but he was the difference last year. We squash him and we go forwards.
[2] Saad goes out with injury. Hopefully, Cowan is fit enough to replace him. Otherwise, Billy Wilson, who has the pace and run we lacked. As for Cowan, he might be able to do a negating job on one of Richmond's mids. If so, we will be improved by it.
[3] Zac Williams: he had 5 clearances in the first quarter last night, but lacked impact thereafter. I wouldn't have him in defence: small forward with turns in the middle.
[4] Fog goes out. Have Ainsworth, Flynn Young or Byrne do his job. All have more pace and are much faster. All can kick a goal from more than 10 m out, something that Fog doesn't do.
[5] Move McGovern forward or out. As a defender, he is too loose. He has brain fades. Moir to the bench or the VFL.
[6] L. Young: do we need him as a defender against Richmond's forwards? Derkson deserves a chance. It will be interesting to see what forwards Richmond present us with.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: rocky on March 06, 2026, 01:38:18 pm
What can we do for next week?
Saad will be out and this is of no great loss to be perfectly honest. He really has reached his end date. Cowan is not listed on our injury list so I assume he's playing in the VFL praccy match this afternoon. If he gets through that then I'd be bringing him as a replacement. Failing that, Boyd would be my next option.
Fogarty out is a no-brainer although knowing our selectors who knows. If Frank is fit by round 1 (questionable) he comes in. Otherwise I'd give the kid Byrne a crack. At least he has a bit of toe.
Young out is a no-brainer although knowing our selectors who knows. Like Frankie, if Haynes is fit by round 1 (more likely than Frank) he comes in. Can't believe I'm saying that. I still remember the same match last year. Nevertheless, credit where credit is due.
McGovern OUT. He just grinds my gears. Can't trust him and he just doesn't seem to learn from his mistakes or doesn't care. Derksen in here. Should've been picked anyway.
Williams to go forward to actually continue on his good form of last year. Another no-brainer although knowing our selectors who knows.
Kemp to play at CHF and Harry at FF. Moir to start on the bench. Come on for short spells up forward then on ball for a couple of minutes then off.
If Carroll gets through todays practice match he comes in onto a HBF and Florent to the wing
Chesser out
Reidy stays, for the time being.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 06, 2026, 05:30:19 pm
Gov out Deksen in Fog out (shouldn't have been picked probably, didnt lay a tackle) Byrne in Saad out not sure who comes in for him and I thought Wilson was also injured, Cowan maybe? Boyd? Reidy out OKeefe In
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: shawny on March 06, 2026, 09:45:00 pm
Danger game
Tiges will believe they can beat us - if we play like last night they will beat us again
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 06, 2026, 10:19:36 pm
Tiges will believe they can beat us - if we play like last night they will beat us again
I'd expect a rebound from our blokes and a good win. Wouldn't change the team much apart from replacing injured players either.. Been talk we approached Craig McRae who said No before commiting to Voss to continue for this season and the club need to show everyone is on the same page and get a win to dial the pressure down.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Thryleon on March 06, 2026, 10:23:57 pm
Tiges will believe they can beat us - if we play like last night they will beat us again
we will knock the stuffing out of them.
mate we couldn’t knock the stuffing out of a pillow.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 11:45:32 pm
Reports from other places from the VFL practice (just opinions and pretty lukewarm in most cases)
Good (fair) Derksen Camporeales Byrne Charleson (early)
OKs Boyd The Irish boys F Young
Not so good O'Keefe Cowan (may be reported)
Bit of a mixture -Carroll and Acres. (probably need another run)
No-one really staking a big claim, which was disappointing but Derksen, Boyd and Byrne suggested as possibles. O'keefe not coming on at the moment is a bit disappointing.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: kruddler on March 07, 2026, 10:33:35 am
I don't get all the hate for boyd. Clearly not rated by the mc. Not well liked by our own supporters.
I don't know if it's got to do with him painting his nails or something equally nonsensical, but a his user of the ball who likes getting physical and flying the flag is something we could use at afl level right now.
To me he looks to play better at afl level. Maybe it's the pristine surfaces of afl over vfl that helps his kicking, but given newman, saad, cowan, carroll (williams?) All out and/or struggling....give him a go
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 07, 2026, 12:44:16 pm
I don't get all the hate for boyd. Clearly not rated by the mc. Not well liked by our own supporters.
I don't know if it's got to do with him painting his nails or something equally nonsensical, but a his user of the ball who likes getting physical and flying the flag is something we could use at afl level right now.
To me he looks to play better at afl level. Maybe it's the pristine surfaces of afl over vfl that helps his kicking, but given newman, saad, cowan, carroll (williams?) All out and/or struggling....give him a go
Id have Boyd in for the injured Saad..
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: LP on March 07, 2026, 03:03:17 pm
To me Saad has been very disappointing now for the best part of two seasons. He seems to have lost the desire and it appears to be the same cycle that he showed just before he came to Carlton. Opposition have worked out his one-sided approach and he's not got a trick left to surprise anyone.
I had hoped a season opener during Ramadan might be his making for 2026, because I think in previous Ramadan's he has gone up a level, but this was a bad start. I think he's got a tough year ahead.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: crashlander on March 07, 2026, 03:52:53 pm
To me Saad has been very disappointing now for the best part of two seasons. He seems to have lost the desire and it appears to be the same cycle that he showed just before he came to Carlton. Opposition have worked out his one-sided approach and he's not got a trick left to surprise anyone.
I had hoped a season opener during Ramadan might be his making for 2026, because I think in previous Ramadan's he has gone up a level, but this was a bad start. I think he's got a tough year ahead.
To be honest, I'd like to see us try Saad in some different roles. Certainly, opposition coaches know what he provides in the backline. With him probably unavailable, I would be using Boyd. I'd like Cowan, but he needs some game time yet.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Thryleon on March 07, 2026, 04:08:14 pm
Saad hurt his hamstring and may not play again. He was playing OK till then but he's just another old player we dont get enough from.
Docherty retired early i thought. Hes a top player who was coming back from significant injury and it was the desire that retired him. Why? Im guessing he didn't see a future in the team at the minute and just jumped before we pushed him.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Baggers on March 07, 2026, 05:04:16 pm
I don't get all the hate for boyd. Clearly not rated by the mc. Not well liked by our own supporters.
I don't know if it's got to do with him painting his nails or something equally nonsensical, but a his user of the ball who likes getting physical and flying the flag is something we could use at afl level right now.
To me he looks to play better at afl level. Maybe it's the pristine surfaces of afl over vfl that helps his kicking, but given newman, saad, cowan, carroll (williams?) All out and/or struggling....give him a go
I don't think there's a lot of "hate for Boyd." This little black duck much prefers Boyd to Saad... for starters his defensive game is much better... he has a passion for the contest, and his body isn't crumbling! And he can kick on both sides of his body.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: LP on March 07, 2026, 05:10:52 pm
I don't think there's a lot of "hate for Boyd." This little black duck much prefers Boyd to Saad... for starters his defensive game is much better... he has a passion for the contest, and his body isn't crumbling! And he can kick on both sides of his body.
In fairness to Saad, he closes a gap better than anybody, but even before his injury it was an all or nothing result, no second chance! To me that isn't good enough for a front-line role, but OK if you're a plus one.
I think we got the balance wrong at the selection table, our tall defenders weren't able to stop the Swans, and our Mids and runners weren't able to stop their opponents. I think we would have been better off to go in with a Med/Sml to replace Young.
What I don't get is that before 1/2-time both teams fumbled horribly, it was like someone had oiled the footy, but after 1/2-time the Swans played like it was cool dry weather while we still fumbled.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: rocky on March 07, 2026, 05:14:04 pm
I don't get all the hate for boyd. Clearly not rated by the mc.
I don't think there's a lot of "hate for Boyd." This little black duck much prefers Boyd to Saad... for starters his defensive game is much better... he has a passion for the contest, and his body isn't crumbling! And he can kick on both sides of his body.
I don't think anyone on this site has hung it on Boyd? Maybe Krudd is referring to the MC. The only comments I recall were how he'd lost some form/confidence and wasn't getting picked when playing well enough in the magoos. I'd have him ahead of Saad
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: townsendcalling on March 08, 2026, 02:20:32 pm
Get us back on the G, give us space to create space, let the runners run, be bold in our approach......and actually show some of the preseason tricks we have been practicing without being suffocated on a postage stamp by a very competent team, like we were last week. 4 - 5 goals would be nice.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: laj on March 08, 2026, 05:10:10 pm
Best for Voss that we don't lose.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: RiverRat on March 08, 2026, 05:52:46 pm
Get us back on the G, give us space to create space, let the runners run, be bold in our approach......and actually show some of the preseason tricks we have been practicing without being suffocated on a postage stamp by a very competent team, like we were last week. 4 - 5 goals would be nice.
Rich have watched Syd take us to the cleaners by matching and "beating up" our midfield. Our boys should know what to expect, it will be interesting to see the response.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 08, 2026, 07:15:58 pm
I don't think there's a lot of "hate for Boyd." This little black duck much prefers Boyd to Saad... for starters his defensive game is much better... he has a passion for the contest, and his body isn't crumbling! And he can kick on both sides of his body.
I don't think anyone on this site has hung it on Boyd? Maybe Krudd is referring to the MC. The only comments I recall were how he'd lost some form/confidence and wasn't getting picked when playing well enough in the magoos. I'd have him ahead of Saad
I have said I think he is VFL level at best. If that's Boyd hate then I put my hand up.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: kruddler on March 08, 2026, 07:46:57 pm
I don't think there's a lot of "hate for Boyd." This little black duck much prefers Boyd to Saad... for starters his defensive game is much better... he has a passion for the contest, and his body isn't crumbling! And he can kick on both sides of his body.
I don't think anyone on this site has hung it on Boyd? Maybe Krudd is referring to the MC. The only comments I recall were how he'd lost some form/confidence and wasn't getting picked when playing well enough in the magoos. I'd have him ahead of Saad
Yep, it was more directed at the MC who seem to keep him on the list, but out of the team. Whats the point?
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: tex on March 08, 2026, 07:49:41 pm
Our backline was at its best when Boyd, cincotta and Newman played IMO
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 08, 2026, 07:51:27 pm
I haven't watched the replay, I don't think there is much point for me as I am just a supporter. The coaches and players need to pull it to bits and learn from it. I'll put rnd O behind and move onto this week and hope the whole Club can turn it around.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Thryleon on March 08, 2026, 08:43:21 pm
Saad confirmed out with a hamstring strain according to mitch cleary on the TV.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: JonDorotich on March 08, 2026, 10:34:08 pm
[1] Plan to take Nankervis out of the picture. He isn't a jumper, so he won't be able to jump all over Pitto and Reidy, but he was the difference last year. We squash him and we go forwards.
[2] Saad goes out with injury. Hopefully, Cowan is fit enough to replace him. Otherwise, Billy Wilson, who has the pace and run we lacked. As for Cowan, he might be able to do a negating job on one of Richmond's mids. If so, we will be improved by it.
[3] Zac Williams: he had 5 clearances in the first quarter last night, but lacked impact thereafter. I wouldn't have him in defence: small forward with turns in the middle.
[4] Fog goes out. Have Ainsworth, Flynn Young or Byrne do his job. All have more pace and are much faster. All can kick a goal from more than 10 m out, something that Fog doesn't do.
[5] Move McGovern forward or out. As a defender, he is too loose. He has brain fades. Moir to the bench or the VFL.
[6] L. Young: do we need him as a defender against Richmond's forwards? Derkson deserves a chance. It will be interesting to see what forwards Richmond present us with.
All agreed, it should be obvious to our brains trust
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Professer E on March 09, 2026, 10:07:27 am
Our MC is one of our biggest problems - all obvious issues but these brainiacs would rather play out of form, over the hill, not up to it types or the wrong types instead of admitting error and correcting the situation.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 09, 2026, 10:16:37 am
Our MC is one of our biggest problems - all obvious issues but these brainiacs would rather play out of form, over the hill, not up to it types or the wrong types instead of admitting error and correcting the situation.
You have Voss coaching for his job and he probably is going to be less inclined to trust overdoing the kids and preferring experienced players initially IMHO. Kids might come later on mass if we concede we need to rebuild..
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Professer E on March 09, 2026, 11:37:02 am
It's our "experienced" player who are the problem IMO, not the kids
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 09, 2026, 12:01:54 pm
[1] Plan to take Nankervis out of the picture. He isn't a jumper, so he won't be able to jump all over Pitto and Reidy, but he was the difference last year. We squash him and we go forwards.
[2] Saad goes out with injury. Hopefully, Cowan is fit enough to replace him. Otherwise, Billy Wilson, who has the pace and run we lacked. As for Cowan, he might be able to do a negating job on one of Richmond's mids. If so, we will be improved by it.
[3] Zac Williams: he had 5 clearances in the first quarter last night, but lacked impact thereafter. I wouldn't have him in defence: small forward with turns in the middle.
[4] Fog goes out. Have Ainsworth, Flynn Young or Byrne do his job. All have more pace and are much faster. All can kick a goal from more than 10 m out, something that Fog doesn't do.
[5] Move McGovern forward or out. As a defender, he is too loose. He has brain fades. Moir to the bench or the VFL.
[6] L. Young: do we need him as a defender against Richmond's forwards? Derkson deserves a chance. It will be interesting to see what forwards Richmond present us with.
Yep. We don't need to throw the baby out with the bathwater after one game.
I hope we stick to the very same game plan, only with a few inclusions. Specifically, Haynes for McGovern, Derken for Young (the kid has a footy IQ, Young hasn't), Boyd for the injured Saad and Byrne for Fogary... and use Byrne like the Fluffy Ducks used Papley and Rottingwood used Pendlebury... sparing impact although the reasons for Papley and Pendles having limited exposure for obvious reasons but the principle is the same... bring on an impact player, sparingly.
The two ruck thing also needs a look. Plus blokes like Cowan, Carroll and Flynn Young should also be in contention...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 09, 2026, 01:52:00 pm
[1] Plan to take Nankervis out of the picture. He isn't a jumper, so he won't be able to jump all over Pitto and Reidy, but he was the difference last year. We squash him and we go forwards.
[2] Saad goes out with injury. Hopefully, Cowan is fit enough to replace him. Otherwise, Billy Wilson, who has the pace and run we lacked. As for Cowan, he might be able to do a negating job on one of Richmond's mids. If so, we will be improved by it.
[3] Zac Williams: he had 5 clearances in the first quarter last night, but lacked impact thereafter. I wouldn't have him in defence: small forward with turns in the middle.
[4] Fog goes out. Have Ainsworth, Flynn Young or Byrne do his job. All have more pace and are much faster. All can kick a goal from more than 10 m out, something that Fog doesn't do.
[5] Move McGovern forward or out. As a defender, he is too loose. He has brain fades. Moir to the bench or the VFL.
[6] L. Young: do we need him as a defender against Richmond's forwards? Derkson deserves a chance. It will be interesting to see what forwards Richmond present us with.
Yep. We don't need to throw the baby out with the bathwater after one game.
I hope we stick to the very same game plan, only with a few inclusions. Specifically, Haynes for McGovern, Derken for Young (the kid has a footy IQ, Young hasn't), Boyd for the injured Saad and Byrne for Fogary... and use Byrne like the Fluffy Ducks used Papley and Rottingwood used Pendlebury... sparing impact although the reasons for Papley and Pendles having limited exposure for obvious reasons but the principle is the same... bring on an impact player, sparingly.
The two ruck thing also needs a look. Plus blokes like Cowan, Carroll and Flynn Young should also be in contention...
Papley and Pendlebury have the age fitness/age issue but its also about using up your rotations early and having none left later in the game when you need them. Swans worked it to perfection saving their rotations having 50 odd still in the bank to use in the 2nd half even though the temptation would have been to use them early when they were struggling. We tired and they kept the pressure up with more rotations/fresher legs which Warner alluded to after the game...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 09, 2026, 03:01:35 pm
Yep. We don't need to throw the baby out with the bathwater after one game.
I hope we stick to the very same game plan, only with a few inclusions. Specifically, Haynes for McGovern, Derken for Young (the kid has a footy IQ, Young hasn't), Boyd for the injured Saad and Byrne for Fogary... and use Byrne like the Fluffy Ducks used Papley and Rottingwood used Pendlebury... sparing impact although the reasons for Papley and Pendles having limited exposure for obvious reasons but the principle is the same... bring on an impact player, sparingly.
The two ruck thing also needs a look. Plus blokes like Cowan, Carroll and Flynn Young should also be in contention...
Papley and Pendlebury have the age fitness/age issue but its also about using up your rotations early and having none left later in the game when you need them. Swans worked it to perfection saving their rotations having 50 odd still in the bank to use in the 2nd half even though the temptation would have been to use them early when they were struggling. We tired and they kept the pressure up with more rotations/fresher legs which Warner alluded to after the game...
At the game we noted the spurts they used Warner in early and he came to the fore in the second half.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: madbluboy on March 09, 2026, 04:02:01 pm
Do you think Pendlebury would have played if he got stretchered off like weitering did that night? Not a chance.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Thryleon on March 09, 2026, 05:52:03 pm
Do you think Pendlebury would have played if he got stretchered off like weitering did that night? Not a chance.
what you mean like calf injury he sustained heading into the finals last year?
He strained it during the warm up, and instead of declaring it, tried to play through it and lasted 5 mins.
Sometimes you get the Lachie neale grand finalist sometimes you get Charlie curnow.
Ultimately if we were going better no one would care. But we arent so everyone is pointing at any fault they can which is fair enough.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Baggers on March 09, 2026, 05:55:57 pm
Apart from a few personnel changes I'd love to see us huntthe Tiggers. On the all too few occasions we went into a game with a hunting approach, we looked very good. 38 tackles against the Fluffy Ducks is p*ss poor.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: shawny on March 09, 2026, 07:28:28 pm
They beat us last year when they were weaker and we probably had a stronger line up then we do now.
Very much a 50/50 game
Only game I'm confident in this year is WC imo
Need to go hard for 4 quarters to get the win and hopefully the extra week fitness will help us.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: LP on March 09, 2026, 07:36:15 pm
Do you think Pendlebury would have played if he got stretchered off like weitering did that night? Not a chance.
I thought Weitering was OK against the Swans without being outstanding, but it wasn't a game KPPs were ultra-strong in with most of the critical scoring that really hurt us came from runners.
Of course Amartey and Curnow benefitted from the free running, but they weren't the real dominant drivers of the free scoring.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: madbluboy on March 10, 2026, 11:24:47 am
Carlton by 37 points.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: pew2 on March 10, 2026, 02:02:06 pm
doesn't matter who we play if we DONT change our game plan, style we are always in danger of getting beaten. I think over the last 2 YRS proves this yet nothings changed, i do not understand our coaches and what they achieve over pre season.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Thryleon on March 10, 2026, 02:23:21 pm
Our game style is only a problem when we lose.
For mine its an emotive argument that needs to be separated because when we are on top, we absolutely are fine game style wise. We just need to polish up the execution bit.
Where our game management falls over is flicking the switch. When momentum deserts you, opposing teams get on top. To arrest that it goes back to winning the ball, and sucking the life out of your opponents. We seem to stay in a "we must score mode" rather than game management mode which is what you need to do, when momentum desserts you. This is also not solely coaching, as the players need to recognise when to ride the wave, and when the wave is breaking on you better which is what the pies do well.
Thing is this happens for reasons too. When the Swans got on top, you need to control play and make them chase the ball a little to even it out. Scoring ldid ead to more scoring which makes it harder to arrest as you need the odd missed shot to help get the ball in your hands unless you win the next clearance. Without checking the stats, we got smashed at the clearance in that period and they scored heavily without missing which means the only way to arrest it was surrender a clearance and flood back rather than win at the next clearance. That should have happened after 4 goals added on. Even so it might be as simple as repeat stoppage for a bit and suck the life out of the game. The Swans got clean ball so that wasn't a thing for us and we needed to flood back.
Anyway tactically this is all you can really try. 1. Kill the game. 2. Starve posession. 3. Attack.
We default to attack. Don't flip the switch between go and stop and 12 goals in a quarter is the result.
Statistically our defense held up last year so I cant agree we dont defend well. So that means we need to do better at game management.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Professer E on March 10, 2026, 02:25:27 pm
Last year's defence is currently minus about four pieces and it shows
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 10, 2026, 03:26:09 pm
The back half defense holds up ok but the problem is the defensive skills of our midfield doesnt.....Gulden and Heeney had high tackle numbers the same cant be said for our mids who dont apply much pressure when they dont have 1st use, we have too many one way players in the middle of the ground. Then you look at our forward pressure which was also non existant...Fogarty didnt have one tackle and he is employed solely as a pressure forward and Ainsworth had one tackle... Its the not the defense, its the rest of the team who pick and choose when to defend so the opposition mids and running half backs just stroll around unhindered and do what they like leading to the avalanche of forward entries and defenders bewildered by the pressure. Cripps, Hewett and Walsh in the middle doesnt work as a group when defense is required, you look at Gold Coast and they have a main midfield of Anderson, Rowell and Miller who can win the footy, attack, defend and carry the ball....our group cant do the latter two skills well enough for long enough against quality opposition.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: kruddler on March 10, 2026, 05:51:50 pm
The back half defense holds up ok but the problem is the defensive skills of our midfield doesnt.....Gulden and Heeney had high tackle numbers the same cant be said for our mids who dont apply much pressure when they dont have 1st use, we have too many one way players in the middle of the ground. Then you look at our forward pressure which was also non existant...Fogarty didnt have one tackle and he is employed solely as a pressure forward and Ainsworth had one tackle... Its the not the defense, its the rest of the team who pick and choose when to defend so the opposition mids and running half backs just stroll around unhindered and do what they like leading to the avalanche of forward entries and defenders bewildered by the pressure. Cripps, Hewett and Walsh in the middle doesnt work as a group when defense is required, you look at Gold Coast and they have a main midfield of Anderson, Rowell and Miller who can win the footy, attack, defend and carry the ball....our group cant do the latter two skills well enough for long enough against quality opposition.
The bold is why we got rid of Kennedy. It has some merit. BUT, you gotta get replacements in to compliment that. Yes, Jagga is one.....and an expensive one given what we gave up for him. Ditto Walker in 2027. But essentially waiting 2-3 years to get replacements is time we can't afford to wait. In the meantime Charlie/Jack is gone. Weitering/Harry are another year closer to the end without real replacements yet. Cripps is definitely not going to recapture his Brownlow form at his age and they will be like ships passing in the night.
We need some urgency with list management decisions so we have an elite core group all around at the same time to be a genuine flag contender.
Unpopular opinion, but i'd be seeing what deal West Coast can do for Cripps at seasons end. I love the bloke as much as the next guy, but looking at whats best for the club......and maybe that is it.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Professer E on March 10, 2026, 06:18:32 pm
We carry too many passengers that are incomplete players ie they won't can't or don't do what their role requires. Fog is one. Seen enough. Time to try somebody else. I could name ten others. I understand Kruddler's sentiment re Cripps, he's a deadset legend but once the ball is 2 metres away he is incapable of applying any defensive pressure.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 10, 2026, 06:20:36 pm
The back half defense holds up ok but the problem is the defensive skills of our midfield doesnt.....Gulden and Heeney had high tackle numbers the same cant be said for our mids who dont apply much pressure when they dont have 1st use, we have too many one way players in the middle of the ground. Then you look at our forward pressure which was also non existant...Fogarty didnt have one tackle and he is employed solely as a pressure forward and Ainsworth had one tackle... Its the not the defense, its the rest of the team who pick and choose when to defend so the opposition mids and running half backs just stroll around unhindered and do what they like leading to the avalanche of forward entries and defenders bewildered by the pressure. Cripps, Hewett and Walsh in the middle doesnt work as a group when defense is required, you look at Gold Coast and they have a main midfield of Anderson, Rowell and Miller who can win the footy, attack, defend and carry the ball....our group cant do the latter two skills well enough for long enough against quality opposition.
The bold is why we got rid of Kennedy. It has some merit. BUT, you gotta get replacements in to compliment that. Yes, Jagga is one.....and an expensive one given what we gave up for him. Ditto Walker in 2027. But essentially waiting 2-3 years to get replacements is time we can't afford to wait. In the meantime Charlie/Jack is gone. Weitering/Harry are another year closer to the end without real replacements yet. Cripps is definitely not going to recapture his Brownlow form at his age and they will be like ships passing in the night.
We need some urgency with list management decisions so we have an elite core group all around at the same time to be a genuine flag contender.
Unpopular opinion, but i'd be seeing what deal West Coast can do for Cripps at seasons end. I love the bloke as much as the next guy, but looking at whats best for the club......and maybe that is it.
I'd agree on Cripps, I think one of the main three has to make way for a player who can be that two way player , maybe it's Cody Walker. Walsh is locked in as the next skipper and long term and I think Hewett is the better defensive player than the other two. Imo a trade for Cripps could benefit both player and club, he will go down as a all-time great at the club but he looks like he has run his race, looks frustrated and in need of a fresh start Imho .
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Thryleon on March 10, 2026, 06:25:37 pm
On the plus side, at least we are copping it in the media.
We usually go well with media height.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: madbluboy on March 10, 2026, 06:35:28 pm
If we lose Docherty's comments will be the least of our problems.
I'm not sure that is the case, would Doc having his public complaint be any more or less divisive than say Mathieson or Elliott?
I can't have a double standard and I won't be a hypocrite. I wouldn't tolerate this sort of rock throwing stuff from a board member, and I won't tolerate it from a past player no matter what their status may be.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Baggers on March 10, 2026, 07:57:43 pm
I was so glad Vossy shut down the incessant, carping, shallow questioning around the D & D bleatings. Steered the hyenas onto the now, the new and the game ahead. Good on you, Vossy.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: PaulP on March 10, 2026, 08:00:57 pm
I was so glad Vossy shut down the incessant, carping, shallow questioning around the D & D bleatings. Steered the hyenas onto the now, the new and the game ahead. Good on you, Vossy.
His media work is pretty good. I remember when he was Lions coach, sheesh, he was lousy. His desire to stay engaged with all aspects of coaching, and learn from his mistakes, and continue to evolve and grow, is very impressive.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 10, 2026, 09:07:43 pm
I was so glad Vossy shut down the incessant, carping, shallow questioning around the D & D bleatings. Steered the hyenas onto the now, the new and the game ahead. Good on you, Vossy.
His media work is pretty good. I remember when he was Lions coach, sheesh, he was lousy. His desire to stay engaged with all aspects of coaching, and learn from his mistakes, and continue to evolve and grow, is very impressive.
The Brisbane Coach Vossy was the ex player who fired up at the first bit of criticism (contructive or otherwise) from the media or if his players werent performing to his expectations. The Carlton Coach Vossy is a more grown up version who has improved his man management skills and is all about making everyone (including himself) better by always remaining positive, always staying the course and backing in his players.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: kruddler on March 10, 2026, 09:18:04 pm
I was so glad Vossy shut down the incessant, carping, shallow questioning around the D & D bleatings. Steered the hyenas onto the now, the new and the game ahead. Good on you, Vossy.
He'd wanna perform in the game ahead though.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: shawny on March 10, 2026, 10:38:42 pm
His media work is pretty good. I remember when he was Lions coach, sheesh, he was lousy. His desire to stay engaged with all aspects of coaching, and learn from his mistakes, and continue to evolve and grow, is very impressive.
The Brisbane Coach Vossy was the ex player who fired up at the first bit of criticism (contructive or otherwise) from the media or if his players werent performing to his expectations. The Carlton Coach Vossy is a more grown up version who has improved his man management skills and is all about making everyone (including himself) better by always remaining positive, always staying the course and backing in his players.
pity he still cant work out a single tactic to stop a 12 goal quarter onslaught.
i couldnt care less how well voss speaks in the media i care about how we have improved in his tenure and from a pure coaching, structures, game plan, moving match day magnets he is still bottom tier and its hard to argue against that based on watching us play year in year out.
hence why Wright is interviewing other options who can coach the modern game.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 10, 2026, 10:42:08 pm
The Brisbane Coach Vossy was the ex player who fired up at the first bit of criticism (contructive or otherwise) from the media or if his players werent performing to his expectations. The Carlton Coach Vossy is a more grown up version who has improved his man management skills and is all about making everyone (including himself) better by always remaining positive, always staying the course and backing in his players.
pity he still cant work out a single tactic to stop a 12 goal quarter onslaught.
i couldnt care less how well voss speaks in the media i care about how we have improved in his tenure and from a pure coaching, structures, game plan, moving match day magnets he is still bottom tier and its hard to argue against that based on watching us play year in year out.
hence why Wright is interviewing other options who can coach the modern game.
Wright didnt interview anyone, its absolute BS.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: frostydog on March 11, 2026, 06:27:19 pm
Don't need both Gov and Young in the side. Don't need Fogarty there either. Williams can fill that slot.
I would have dropped Gov and played Derksen. I would have dropped Fog for Byrne
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Professer E on March 11, 2026, 07:13:11 pm
No to Fog, MacG, Young, Chesser and if they don't play him forward, Williams.
These guys need to start paying back the MCs faith or clean out ya lockers
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: kruddler on March 11, 2026, 07:47:38 pm
Young, Fogarty and Elijah would be extremely lucky IMO. Moir, maybe a little unlucky, but you can't argue too much.....hopefully Williams plays forward this week in his spot. Reidy for team balance with HOK playing forward/ruck with maybe Harry doing some ruck as well.
Cowan in, will stay in. Carroll might be keeping the seat warm for Newman or Saad in a couple weeks, but best of luck to him.
Slight improvement, but could do better.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: JonDorotich on March 11, 2026, 07:49:04 pm
All of the following can consider themselves lucky - Young, McGovern, Hollands x2
All of them nowhere near starting in a premiership side.
Derkson, Byrne, Campo x2 much better
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Sexybronco on March 11, 2026, 08:08:26 pm
Young, Fogarty and Elijah would be extremely lucky IMO. Moir, maybe a little unlucky, but you can't argue too much.....hopefully Williams plays forward this week in his spot. Reidy for team balance with HOK playing forward/ruck with maybe Harry doing some ruck as well.
Cowan in, will stay in. Carroll might be keeping the seat warm for Newman or Saad in a couple weeks, but best of luck to him.
Slight improvement, but could do better.
Carrol was generating a bit of hype in the preseason prior to getting hurt so I’ll be interested to see how he goes. Both he and Cowan are good ‘ons’ IMO.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Sexybronco on March 11, 2026, 08:11:30 pm
Don't need both Gov and Young in the side. Don't need Fogarty there either. Williams can fill that slot.
I would have dropped Gov and played Derksen. I would have dropped Fog for Byrne
Byrne will play once he establishes done sort of fitness base, mikes ahead of Fogarty. I also expect Derkson to play before too long as guys like Gov and Young are ‘stop gap’ at best.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 11, 2026, 08:57:19 pm
I would have dropped Gov and played Derksen. I would have dropped Fog for Byrne
Byrne will play once he establishes done sort of fitness base, mikes ahead of Fogarty. I also expect Derkson to play before too long as guys like Gov and Young are ‘stop gap’ at best.
Rip the bandaid off, Gov and Young should be back ups only. Play Derksen over one of them now.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: crashlander on March 11, 2026, 09:39:19 pm
Our line-up: B: 2 Lachlan Cowan 23 Jacob Weitering 35 Harry Dean HB: 11 Mitch McGovern 33 Lewis Young 14 Oliver Florent C: 31 Campbell Chesser 9 Patrick Cripps 4 Oliver Hollands HF: 19 Will Hayward 10 Harry McKay 12 Ben Ainsworth F: 7 Jagga Smith 17 Brodie Kemp 8 Lachie Fogarty R: 27 Marc Pittonet 29 George Hewett 18 Sam Walsh Int: 6 Zac Williams 36 Cooper Lord 20 Elijah Hollands 32 Matthew Carroll 40 Hudson O'Keeffe
Em: 39 Talor Byrne 37 Jordan Boyd 43 Ashton Moir
[1] Fog is very lucky. He hasn't produced at senior level for a long time now. I wouldn't worry so much if he had 10 tackles, but I don't think he had 1. [2] Moir might be a bit stiff, but he needs to show more desire. I think McGovern is going to play forward. [3] Elijah was very rusty last week: I don't think he will be as ordinary this week. But, he does need to show the disposal he is known for.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 11, 2026, 10:30:02 pm
Very weak looking Richmond team without the likes of Vlastuin and Prestia, surely we cant lose this game and should win easily by 5 goals plus imho. They have a pedestrian midfield with Taranto, Hopper, Ross and seem devoid of matchwinners so I dont see our mids having the same pressure they faced last week vs the star studded Swans midfield group. Cripps, Hewett, and Walsh should get 35 plus possies each this week and for me the interesting duel will be vs Pittonet and Nankervis slugging it out in the ruck.. Im predicting we have at least one big quarter and pile on the goals with Harry kicking a bag...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: rocky on March 12, 2026, 09:37:50 am
Here's who's missing from the side that ran onto the field in 2025 Evans Cottrell Lucas Camporeale Acres Saad Haynes Silvagni De Koning Cerra Motlop Docherty
Here's who's in for this game Dean Young Florent Chesser Hayward Ainsworth Smith Pittonet Elijah Hollands Carroll O'Keffe
A LOT of change
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Professer E on March 12, 2026, 09:58:13 am
Don't how we've progressed based on that list
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: madbluboy on March 12, 2026, 10:25:04 am
Losing is just not an option here.
We should win and win easy.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 12, 2026, 10:40:36 am
I have been trying to convince myself of this in the lead up but I cant help but feel anxious. Years of losing the unlosable has conditioned me to be like this.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: madbluboy on March 12, 2026, 10:55:07 am
I have been trying to convince myself of this in the lead up but I cant help but feel anxious. Years of losing the unlosable has conditioned me to be like this.
Backs against the wall against poor sides we usually take care of business.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: LP on March 12, 2026, 10:57:06 am
It reminds me about the claims we don't defend, and how the inference becomes players like Gov or Weitering, when to me the "not defending" starts at the other end of the ground.
Last week I saw BigH and Kemp chase blokes they could not possibly catch, to the point of their own detriment, I can't say I saw every Carlton forward doing the same and that left our Mids and HBFs exposed to numbers they could not cover!
That one weak link can be anywhere on the ground, and it only takes one on a ground the size of the MCG to create an undefendable amount of space!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Thryleon on March 12, 2026, 11:24:22 am
Whether or not we win is open for debate.
Im reviewing the side we are carrying into this one, and am not necessarily enthused with the team balance. The Tigers dont lack run, and I would have thought that someone like Jordan Boyd in this week would make more sense than Matt Carroll. To me, Carroll and Mcgovern fill the same hole 3rd tall intercept without a lot of run and carry. Boyd gives us more run and carry.
On the surface of it, Young, Weiters and Dean looks like too much tall timber, but the Tigers are going in with Faull, Armstrong and Lynch as tall players.
Pittonet and Nank is a good match up. Nank brings aggression, but pittonet brings strength. That match up is good. Up forward im a bit concerned though.
I was less worried about this yesterday, but wondering if we missed a trick here. Luckily the Tigers are also going in tall and have selected a lot of tall timber in the side.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: PaulP on March 12, 2026, 11:33:23 am
I really hope those inside the football department take the Tigers as seriously as they take the Lions, Swans etc. We are not in any position to be complacent or cocky IMO.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: LP on March 12, 2026, 11:43:45 am
If you mean our F50, I agreed, and it's not because of the departure Charlie or SoJ, it because we've had this issue of low scoring efficiency right through and before the tenure of Charlie and SoJ. Even before Voss.
It's the one thing we seem unable to correct, and let's not forget relative to his predecessors Voss has corrected plenty!
Do we know when the problem started, some will claim the departure of Betts set in the rot! Ignoring coaches, economic and administration issues, the biggest football mistake I've seen our club make in my lifetime. Dick Pratt would go and get the best, we let the best go, and it burns us to this day!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 12, 2026, 12:30:10 pm
Tigers are a bunch of rebuild kids and battlers, as MBB said we should take care of them easily and have a big win imo. I don't expect to see us defending for our lives in the last quarter or blown away in one quarter like last week. Need a good win for confidence and while the media probably won't be impressed with anything we do at least we might get the club off the front and back page of the papers and settle a few people down .
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: tonyo on March 12, 2026, 12:38:54 pm
Tigers are a bunch of rebuild kids and battlers, as MBB said we should take care of them easily and have a big win imo. I don't expect to see us defending for our lives in the last quarter or blown away in one quarter like last week. Need a good win for confidence and while the media probably won't be impressed with anything we do at least we might get the club off the front and back page of the papers and settle a few people down .
I doubt the weather is going to be conducive to heavy scoring. Hopefully I'm wrong, but this is how luck like the luck of the weather, can influence a season.
The naysayers will claim I'm making an excuse in advance, I must be Nostradamus.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: shawny on March 12, 2026, 12:46:59 pm
Tigers are a bunch of rebuild kids and battlers, as MBB said we should take care of them easily and have a big win imo. I don't expect to see us defending for our lives in the last quarter or blown away in one quarter like last week. Need a good win for confidence and while the media probably won't be impressed with anything we do at least we might get the club off the front and back page of the papers and settle a few people down .
Agree however i thought exactly the same thing when we played them in R1 last year and when we played the roos.
Despite our clear edge in quality if you compare the 2 squads fielding tonight that in itself counts for little and we are far from a certainty to get the 4 points if we are basing it only on that. Tactically we are bottom 4 and evey team that plays us knows that are never out it and if they get a run the flood gates will open.
We are a fickle club at the best of times and my worry is the players no longer believe in as he has idea what levers to pull (oh except put cripps forward) if the game is not going to plan.
My heart says it will be a 10 goal win but this current list finds new ways to disappoint me so until the game is beyond doubt im far from confident
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: shawny on March 12, 2026, 12:48:12 pm
I thought that 12 months ago, and we were 7 goals up half way through the second quarter....
This does nothing for my anxiety levels, just gives me PTSD on top.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: LP on March 12, 2026, 02:57:42 pm
Does shizen weather suit us over Nthmond?
I think so, scrappy inside footy should be our go, and when the wind gusts that is the sort of footy you get, our average foot skills won't be such a handicap if both sides are missing targets. As long as we can force Nthmond into long kicking while keeping the intervening space closed up.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 12, 2026, 03:07:11 pm
Tigers are a bunch of rebuild kids and battlers, as MBB said we should take care of them easily and have a big win imo. I don't expect to see us defending for our lives in the last quarter or blown away in one quarter like last week. Need a good win for confidence and while the media probably won't be impressed with anything we do at least we might get the club off the front and back page of the papers and settle a few people down .
Agree however i thought exactly the same thing when we played them in R1 last year and when we played the roos.
Despite our clear edge in quality if you compare the 2 squads fielding tonight that in itself counts for little and we are far from a certainty to get the 4 points if we are basing it only on that. Tactically we are bottom 4 and evey team that plays us knows that are never out it and if they get a run the flood gates will open.
We are a fickle club at the best of times and my worry is the players no longer believe in as he has idea what levers to pull (oh except put cripps forward) if the game is not going to plan.
My heart says it will be a 10 goal win but this current list finds new ways to disappoint me so until the game is beyond doubt im far from confident
Understand your thoughts Shawny but I'm trying to remain positive for these next few games or it's going to be a miserable long season if we can't get to 3-1 and at least know we are no worse than last season and with a bit of luck can progress a bit further. Seems there is always another disaster waiting around the corner for the Carlton football club so we need to bank a few wins and hopefully ride the bumps.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 1 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Richmond
Post by: Thryleon on March 12, 2026, 03:30:17 pm
I think so, scrappy inside footy should be our go, and when the wind gusts that is the sort of footy you get, our average foot skills won't be such a handicap if both sides are missing targets. As long as we can force Nthmond into long kicking while keeping the intervening space closed up.
Definitely Richmond.
They built a 3 flag winning team off surge mentality football, which is effectively not pretty but keep knocking it forward. They are also harder running both ways. We like the contest, but tend to be overly cute, and then stuff up our ball use. The windy conditions will amplify disposal issues or accidentally fix them. IMHO, its a leveller and for us, we are a pretty playing football team who doesnt mind a scrap, where as the Tigers are a scrappy bully team, that play surge football.