Princes Park => Robert Heatley Stand => Topic started by: crashlander on March 13, 2026, 12:43:59 am
Title: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: crashlander on March 13, 2026, 12:43:59 am
I know the AFL hate us, but the scheduling of the next few weeks is seriously diabolical. [1] Rd #2 Bye. Then an extra long wait before our next game when we really need game time into our players. [2] vs Melbourne on a Sunday afternoon - not bad in itself, but then we have 2 short weeks in a row, Can't they schedule us for a Saturday? Or a Friday night? [3] Good Friday against North [4] Thursday night against Collingwood
Do other teams get screwed around like this?
Enough rant for the moment. After our bye, we play Melbourne at 15:15 on a Sunday (29th March). I have no idea how good Melbourne will be, but they are going to miss their stars eventually. Gawn is too good for our rucks. I'm not sure what we can do about that.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 13, 2026, 12:48:31 pm
Out Fogarty E Hollands In Byrne One of the Campos or Blacres. Dunno when Haynes will be ready but he needs to come in ASAP to add some composure.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 13, 2026, 01:08:40 pm
Ollie must stay. Elijah should go out Frankie to take his place
Derkson in Young out
Byrne/moir in Fogarty out
Acres in Chesser out
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: pew2 on March 13, 2026, 02:12:57 pm
how bad has nick Austin been in his job , firstly Reid gets dropped and now people saying chesser out and E holllands wow already
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 13, 2026, 02:22:01 pm
Just because they are down on form, doesnt mean they are a bust.
But id argue that nobody expected them to be world beaters to begin with.
Of course, just because you recruit someone, doesn't mean you play them when they are out of form.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 13, 2026, 02:40:07 pm
I would have persisted with Moir and Reidy, both are young and the future, we are probably at an inflexion point of deciding whether to prioritise trying to win games now to save the coach or trying to develop a team that can contend properly in a couple of years time. Players like Acres, Haynes, Fogarty, McGovern wont be long at the club and yep they may help squeeze some wins out vs the Tigers, WC, Nth, Essendon but they really are just roadblocks to younger players developing quicker imo and Id be wanting a focus on youth and that probably means a few heavy defeats. A player like Chesser who probably doesnt warrant a place at the minute needs to be played and given the chance to develop, I wasnt a huge fan of his recruiting but now we have him he needs to be played and persisted with in a few different roles imo...same with Reidy and Moir who were given the one game vs the Swans then dumped, thats ridiculous imo.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Shakin77 on March 13, 2026, 02:53:31 pm
No doubting Moir's ability, but I wonder if he was dropped for his defensive efforts.
I think Flynn Young will surprise a few.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 13, 2026, 03:05:21 pm
No doubting Moir's ability, but I wonder if he was dropped for his defensive efforts.
I think Flynn Young will surprise a few.
Agree on both players..Moir needs to learn that defensive side to his game and has similar traits to Bayley Fritsch, if Moir is kicking goals then I can wear less defensive work like Melbourne have with Fritsch but he has to learn in the seniors imo not the VFL where he can have an ordinary day and still look good. Young is a crafty forward and opportunist with good skills and in a team that lacks consistent efficiency down forward thats one area where he does excel as he is an efficient converter. Again the question is does he do enough when we dont have the ball and need defensive pressure to stay in the game. Frankie Evans is probably missed in that regard as he was giving us a two way game...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: rocky on March 13, 2026, 03:14:35 pm
If Fogarty gets a start next game I feel like ringing up the club to have a vent. There are SO many other better options. I think they'll have Frankie as his replacement.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: JonDorotich on March 13, 2026, 03:38:13 pm
how bad has nick Austin been in his job , firstly Reid gets dropped and now people saying chesser out and E holllands wow already
Agree with this mostly, but suspect our coaching panel also had their say
Imagine fighting so hard to retain a bloke with behavioural issues who is an absolute turnover merchant?
I’d be dropping him and his brother quick smart along with Lewis.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Professer E on March 13, 2026, 03:41:30 pm
Moir had zero intensity last week, like the first half of last year, and quite frankly needed a rocket regarding standards.Not surprised he got dropped.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 13, 2026, 04:53:39 pm
No doubting Moir's ability, but I wonder if he was dropped for his defensive efforts.
I think Flynn Young will surprise a few.
Saw one passage of play yesterday when Young went through about 4 Richmond VFL players like a hot knife through butter. He needs to be given a shot.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 13, 2026, 07:04:02 pm
I had the wrong Hollands out, E not O For some reason, I thought Newman was suspended but its been brought to my attention he is available so he needs to come in also.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Baggers on March 14, 2026, 09:29:58 am
No doubting Moir's ability, but I wonder if he was dropped for his defensive efforts.
I think Flynn Young will surprise a few.
Thought the same thing. There was one glaring contest where Moir pulled up before a marking contest assuming the opponent would take the mark... he didn't and Moir missed an important opportunity. Slack, very slack.
100% agree re Flynn Young. This kid doesn't waste an opportunity and his disposal skills are sharp.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: DJC on March 14, 2026, 09:36:50 am
I had the wrong Hollands out, E not O For some reason, I thought Newman was suspended but its been brought to my attention he is available so he needs to come in also.
Newey’s suspension is up but he has only played limited minutes in two VFL practice games. I suspect that he will be underdone.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: shawny on March 14, 2026, 10:22:47 am
I had the wrong Hollands out, E not O For some reason, I thought Newman was suspended but its been brought to my attention he is available so he needs to come in also.
Newey’s suspension is up but he has only played limited minutes in two VFL practice games. I suspect that he will be underdone.
He is in his last few seasons imo - considering where this list is we just have to get games into Moir, Campo brothers, Flynn Young this season. We cant waste this year playing too many of the older blokes at the expense of kids. I know its a balance but the likes of Hynes, Newman, McGovern, Saad cannot be automatic ins anymore.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 14, 2026, 10:37:45 am
I fear Moir is going to struggle under our faster game style, he seems best suited to the older stoppage / marking game style where he could be the 3rd man up in the contest.
To persist he really needs to make better use of his ambidextrous capabilities, if anything he seems to have gone backwards in that regard.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 14, 2026, 11:20:41 am
I fear Moir is going to struggle under our faster game style, he seems best suited to the older stoppage / marking game style where he could be the 3rd man up in the contest.
To persist he really needs to make better use of his ambidextrous capabilities, if anything he seems to have gone backwards in that regard.
Moir will be best as a stay at home FF. Isolate him 1 on 1, and you'll get a fair amount of goals out of him.
Yes, he can be a bit slack. Yes, he can drop his head in the contest a little bit.
You know who else could fit into those same shoes? Fevola!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 14, 2026, 03:29:58 pm
I fear Moir is going to struggle under our faster game style, he seems best suited to the older stoppage / marking game style where he could be the 3rd man up in the contest.
To persist he really needs to make better use of his ambidextrous capabilities, if anything he seems to have gone backwards in that regard.
His ability to kick equally well with both feet is a talent we can ill afford to lose. If there is a way to use him differently I would explore it. Maybe in the midfield? Surely we can cure any attitude problems he may have, unless of course of he is getting homesick in which case there is no curing that. If PA or Adel want him, get a deal done with them.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: laj on March 14, 2026, 11:11:30 pm
I know the AFL hate us, but the scheduling of the next few weeks is seriously diabolical. [1] Rd #2 Bye. Then an extra long wait before our next game when we really need game time into our players. [2] vs Melbourne on a Sunday afternoon - not bad in itself, but then we have 2 short weeks in a row, Can't they schedule us for a Saturday? Or a Friday night? [3] Good Friday against North [4] Thursday night against Collingwood
Do other teams get screwed around like this?
Enough rant for the moment. After our bye, we play Melbourne at 15:15 on a Sunday (29th March). I have no idea how good Melbourne will be, but they are going to miss their stars eventually. Gawn is too good for our rucks. I'm not sure what we can do about that.
Just noticed, we have a 17 day break. AFL actually look when doing the fixture?
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 16, 2026, 08:49:18 am
I recall Gawn speaking post match about the challenge of facing DeKoning and Pittonet and the physical effort it took. St Kilda were behind the eight ball in that department yesterday once Marshall went into the concussion protocols.
We'll need two rucks against him The question for us...O'Keefe or Reidy.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 16, 2026, 09:14:26 am
^^ Id start with O'keefe I think.
Personally, Id possibly ruck Pittonet by himself, and add more run as we havent been doing well after half time. You can be too ruck focussed.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Professer E on March 16, 2026, 09:16:38 am
HoK has something I reckon, his rucking has improved and he is effective at deck level.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 16, 2026, 09:30:03 am
Seriously though... We need to get more games into O'Keefe Reidy has a bit more physicality and aggression in his game at this stage.
It 'is' probably a tough choice.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 16, 2026, 10:02:46 am
I'd go with HOK for his forward work potential and the fact Harry and Kemp hasn't worked. Gawn will get his 40 hitouts but we will still win the clearances as Melbournes midfield is depleted with Viney missing and their outs in the trade period. Stkilda got punished for their loose defense and we need to make sure we learn from that.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: pew2 on March 16, 2026, 03:02:53 pm
i agree add more RUN RUN doesnt matter Gawny always beats our ruck , for F.....k S....e can our defenders or when we go forward do not kick the ball straight to MAXY
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 16, 2026, 03:06:50 pm
i agree add more RUN RUN doesnt matter Gawny always beats our ruck , for F.....k S....e can our defenders or when we go forward do not kick the ball straight to MAXY
Seeing Gawn drop into the space without any fear or trepidation makes me pine for days of Fev, Ablett Snr or Lockett accompanied by their anvil like knees!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Professer E on March 16, 2026, 03:34:32 pm
MacG stays forward and Kemp might get squeezed out.
Harry needs a hand as a marking target and MacG looked better in his time up forward than Kemp does.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 16, 2026, 05:08:32 pm
I recall Gawn speaking post match about the challenge of facing DeKoning and Pittonet and the physical effort it took. St Kilda were behind the eight ball in that department yesterday once Marshall went into the concussion protocols.
We'll need two rucks against him The question for us...O'Keefe or Reidy.
Put 2 players against any 1 player and they will find it difficult.
THe other side of that coin is that you have less players to play on other players....and thats where the damage gets done.
We've had many a debate about our chances this season and you've tried to convince me we'll be ok because of the spread of talent we got in vs losing elite talent. This is the same argument but coming from the opposite direction. Forget about trying to cover the elite Gawn and use your spread of talent to win other areas of the ground.....and thus the game.
Rucks are overated. Gawn is elite. Gawn vs 1 ruck, he might get 30 touches and kick 2 goals. Gawn vs 2 rucks, he might get 20 touches and kick 1 goal.
Is it worth adding an extra player to save 10 touches and a goal? Do we go down a midfield rotation as a result? A midfielder that might get you 20 touches and a goal themselves.....as well as ease the load on the other midfielders, allowing them to benefit as well.
Now, more than ever, our team can afford to play 2 'ruck types' given one of them is basically our FF. But even then, the output of HOK (or Reidy) in that role is not really seeing us get much of a benefit.
Stick with 1 ruck, and run them off their feet. .....or at least limit the damage we do to ourselves when we fall in a hole after half time unable to run anymore.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 16, 2026, 05:11:07 pm
I recall Gawn speaking post match about the challenge of facing DeKoning and Pittonet and the physical effort it took. St Kilda were behind the eight ball in that department yesterday once Marshall went into the concussion protocols.
We'll need two rucks against him The question for us...O'Keefe or Reidy.
Put 2 players against any 1 player and they will find it difficult.
THe other side of that coin is that you have less players to play on other players....and thats where the damage gets done.
We've had many a debate about our chances this season and you've tried to convince me we'll be ok because of the spread of talent we got in vs losing elite talent. This is the same argument but coming from the opposite direction. Forget about trying to cover the elite Gawn and use your spread of talent to win other areas of the ground.....and thus the game.
Rucks are overated. Gawn is elite. Gawn vs 1 ruck, he might get 30 touches and kick 2 goals. Gawn vs 2 rucks, he might get 20 touches and kick 1 goal.
Is it worth adding an extra player to save 10 touches and a goal? Do we go down a midfield rotation as a result? A midfielder that might get you 20 touches and a goal themselves.....as well as ease the load on the other midfielders, allowing them to benefit as well.
Now, more than ever, our team can afford to play 2 'ruck types' given one of them is basically our FF. But even then, the output of HOK (or Reidy) in that role is not really seeing us get much of a benefit.
Stick with 1 ruck, and run them off their feet. .....or at least limit the damage we do to ourselves when we fall in a hole after half time unable to run anymore.
Yep, let lewis young do the relief work currently. even if he breaks we might end up better off...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 16, 2026, 06:23:46 pm
What's the bet one of OKeefe or Reidy plays. ;D
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: shawny on March 16, 2026, 06:34:09 pm
Pickett will kick 6 against us. No natural match up for him. Too smart and way too fast for our smaller backs.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Sexybronco on March 16, 2026, 08:23:04 pm
We badly need some more liveliness in the F50. We reverted to the bad old 'bomb it in' ways in the second half last week.
Derksen, Evans, Byrne in
Young, Fogarty, Elijah get a break
Byrne would have been in from the 1st round but seems to lack the fitness required to run out a game, we may need to be a little more patient with him. Agree on Derksen and Evans….
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 17, 2026, 11:51:07 am
We badly need some more liveliness in the F50. We reverted to the bad old 'bomb it in' ways in the second half last week.
Derksen, Evans, Byrne in
Young, Fogarty, Elijah get a break
Chesser went at a DE in the 40s, thats normally a recipe for a run in he 2s.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Professer E on March 17, 2026, 12:49:15 pm
Yep, two games, no impact, twos beckon.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 17, 2026, 01:00:38 pm
Chesser for a newbie is pretty clean, we have quite a few long terms that could learn a thing or two, I'd have to watch the disposals closely before deciding what is good or bad, but I have to say I haven't noticed anything too negative, no worse than some of our front line.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 17, 2026, 01:12:52 pm
Chesser for a newbie is pretty clean, we have quite a few long terms that could learn a thing or two, I'd have to watch the disposals closely before deciding what is good or bad, but I have to say I haven't noticed anything too negative, no worse than some of our front line.
Thurs night wasnt Chessers best work.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Adelaideblue on March 17, 2026, 01:52:36 pm
We badly need some more liveliness in the F50. We reverted to the bad old 'bomb it in' ways in the second half last week.
Derksen, Evans, Byrne in
Young, Fogarty, Elijah get a break
I'd actually like to see Derksen given a run in the forward line. He played at both ends for GWS in the VFL and was their leading goalkicker in 2023.
Yes, so far we have looked undermanned up forward without Charlie. Imagine Derksen has been largely recruited to do a job down back so this may be his starting spot in the firsts. Will look forward to seeing how he also goes if swung forward. Good to have a guy with size on our list with that versatility.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 17, 2026, 01:58:47 pm
Chesser for a newbie is pretty clean, we have quite a few long terms that could learn a thing or two, I'd have to watch the disposals closely before deciding what is good or bad, but I have to say I haven't noticed anything too negative, no worse than some of our front line.
Thurs night wasnt Chessers best work.
The problem is, maybe it was....
:D
In all seriousness, we need Cotters and Acres back to help with the outside run, hardness, and ball magentability.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: DJC on March 17, 2026, 02:22:53 pm
Chesser for a newbie is pretty clean, we have quite a few long terms that could learn a thing or two, I'd have to watch the disposals closely before deciding what is good or bad, but I have to say I haven't noticed anything too negative, no worse than some of our front line.
A goal assist and five score involvements from a winger is a pretty good return, particularly when we only managed 10.15
However, I would bring Acres in for Chesser.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 17, 2026, 04:41:08 pm
Acres with 1 shoulder is better than Chesser with 2.
Acres is a big unit who works the full length of the ground. Chesser is a speedster who covers the ground quickly and can put pressure on opposition runners. Both meet a need but, in this instance, I’d prefer strength to speed.
Acres looked a class above everyone else in the VFL - as he should!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 17, 2026, 05:04:44 pm
Acres with 1 shoulder is better than Chesser with 2.
It assumes Acres will be remaining on the ground if injured.
I feel it's a bigger problem for us as we do not have the midfield leg speed to cover the loss of a deep running type player, regardless of what our selection mix looks like, our A-Grade starting midfield is basically slowish relative to the opposition. So we need plenty of blokes out there who can be there from the 1st bounce to the final siren, otherwise the likes of Cripps, Hewett, Walsh, Cerra, etc., etc.. run themselves into the ground chasing people they can't catch.
As an aside, we were lucky last week when Williams returned, if he hadn't we might have fallen short instead of limping across the line!
On the ruck issues, I think Reidy and Pitto are too similar, Pitto is in good form so I'd go with HOK as the backup, he's more mobile but obviously not as physical as the other two, he can be angry though! ;D Maybe when we play the likes of Norp, we go Pitto and Reidy vs Xerri. Did we get it back to front in the first two rounds, or was our hand forced to play Reidy when we thought he wasn't ready because we knew HOK wasn't ready? To me Pitto and / or Reidy are the better match for Nankervis, and HOK is a better match for a more mobile type.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 17, 2026, 06:39:33 pm
Chesser for a newbie is pretty clean, we have quite a few long terms that could learn a thing or two, I'd have to watch the disposals closely before deciding what is good or bad, but I have to say I haven't noticed anything too negative, no worse than some of our front line.
Thurs night wasnt Chessers best work.
Turnover merchant like Florent, not great under pressure either. I'd like to see Lucas Camporeale on a wing. Acres will probably get an upgrade and I do like a taller winger but I think we need to look to the future..
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 17, 2026, 08:35:37 pm
Turnover merchant like Florent, not great under pressure either. I'd like to see Lucas Camporeale on a wing. Acres will probably get an upgrade and I do like a taller winger but I think we need to look to the future..
Lucas will be on a wing alright, next year in South Australia I reckon.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 17, 2026, 09:47:53 pm
Turnover merchant like Florent, not great under pressure either. I'd like to see Lucas Camporeale on a wing. Acres will probably get an upgrade and I do like a taller winger but I think we need to look to the future..
Lucas will be on a wing alright, next year in South Australia I reckon.
I'm still hopeful he has some more upside and just needs opportunity, same with his brother..
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 17, 2026, 11:18:39 pm
Yep 19 years old.... Late draft picks
They play positions where we have plenty of established players keeping them out at present. We've also had a few others come onto the list this year with a bit more experience and maturity. They can develop in the VFL this year and make a case for selection there. Ben would probably have played last year had he not been suspended. Lucas got a taste.
All we can ask at this stage is improvement so it will be interesting to see how they go once the VFL kicks off. They will be battling for a new contract or an extension so you would think they will need to have cracked it for a few senior games by the end of the year.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 18, 2026, 08:07:16 am
Turnover merchant like Florent, not great under pressure either. I'd like to see Lucas Camporeale on a wing.
Hopefully the Campo kids live up to the name, but at the moment progress is slow and a name is all they have to show.
I hope they aren't another case of hype and expectation exceeding capability, they do have time on their side, but it's hard to see why the old man complains about a lack of opportunity. Campo should do a Peter Dean, and tell his kids to put their heads over the footy and go for it, instead of complaining about the lack of gifted games!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 18, 2026, 09:21:17 am
Dylan Buckley was the same. Give them time. He had a turn of pace, and a bit of aggro, and was a bit of a turnover merchant too but he might have had a much longer and finer career had his body help up better (he had that ankle injury that saw him limping off the ground too often).
Lucas threw up in his second game against Hawthorn so he is willing to push himself and he has at worst performed about as well as Chesser has to date in the small sample size of both.
Ultimately, I think we are doing something clever, and trying not to play too many youngsters all at once, which means the opportunities are harder to come by, and something that other clubs have done a lot better than us through the rebuilding years. You cant afford to play too many sub 50 gamers together, as they are not conditioned, and then lose their heads, which might explain some of these fadeouts we have been having.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 18, 2026, 10:58:20 am
Ultimately, I think we are doing something clever, and trying not to play too many youngsters all at once, which means the opportunities are harder to come by, and something that other clubs have done a lot better than us through the rebuilding years. You cant afford to play too many sub 50 gamers together, as they are not conditioned, and then lose their heads, which might explain some of these fadeouts we have been having.
The better teams give their youngsters plenty of time to find their feet. Play them when and/or if they're ready and have earned their place.
A quarter of our team stood inside the circle for the team song on Thursday night and we had seven players wearing the navy blue for the first time against the Swans. Yes, three of them are seasoned AFL players but that's still a significant part of the team who aren't all that familiar with their teammates and how they play.
I am expecting to see incremental improvements as the newbies gel with the blokes who have been on the list for a season or more.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 18, 2026, 11:49:55 am
Dylan Buckley was the same. Give them time. He had a turn of pace, and a bit of aggro, and was a bit of a turnover merchant too but he might have had a much longer and finer career had his body help up better (he had that ankle injury that saw him limping off the ground too often).
Lucas threw up in his second game against Hawthorn so he is willing to push himself and he has at worst performed about as well as Chesser has to date in the small sample size of both.
Ultimately, I think we are doing something clever, and trying not to play too many youngsters all at once, which means the opportunities are harder to come by, and something that other clubs have done a lot better than us through the rebuilding years. You cant afford to play too many sub 50 gamers together, as they are not conditioned, and then lose their heads, which might explain some of these fadeouts we have been having.
Agree, it's difficult for the coach having to win games to save his job and also provide development opportunities to players who are probably borderline only.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Professer E on March 18, 2026, 12:01:58 pm
Campo SNR is always unhappy
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 18, 2026, 01:02:47 pm
The campo twins never came highly rated. We all have expectations that they can live up to their old man, but not likely.
TBH, i don't think they will make it, and if the old man is causing an issue now, perhaps we show them the door sooner rather than later. Perhaps they'd be better off following his footsteps and pissing off to Essendon, they'd probably get a game there.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 18, 2026, 01:26:48 pm
He was very emotional when they were drafted, he is a premiership bluebagger so deep down I'm sure he loves the club.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Professer E on March 18, 2026, 03:04:13 pm
Didn't stop him pissing off for more bucks when the going got tough, and gave his share of drive bys on the way out the door. Neither of the kids are great kicks and probably lack the toe to play on a wing....kind of in line with all our other wing options- none are good kicks.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: JonDorotich on March 18, 2026, 08:34:36 pm
For the record I’d prefer either Campo, Cottrell or Acres ahead of either Hollands - I can’t believe how many critical mistakes the Hollands brothers make.
Perversely the issue is that they do a lot of things right, but theh don’t seem to be aware of they’re limitations, which tends to result in them going for low probability kicks or trying to channel Michael Conlon by crashing through a tackle (without the muscle) and it often goes horribly wrong at the wrong time!
Young, Fogarty & Hollands x2 out would be ideal
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: laj on March 23, 2026, 12:07:15 pm
Ben was looking very good late in the season, especially at centre bounce clearances. We do have a few of those though. Ben would have played late last year but for that 4 week suspension.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: laj on March 23, 2026, 12:09:12 pm
Didn't stop him pissing off for more bucks when the going got tough, and gave his share of drive bys on the way out the door. Neither of the kids are great kicks and probably lack the toe to play on a wing....kind of in line with all our other wing options- none are good kicks.
Ben gave me the impression late in then year that he was best as a clearance type player, not as a winger like his brother and old man.
The old man left as he had had enough of the coach.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 23, 2026, 12:51:14 pm
Didn't stop him pissing off for more bucks when the going got tough, and gave his share of drive bys on the way out the door. Neither of the kids are great kicks and probably lack the toe to play on a wing....kind of in line with all our other wing options- none are good kicks.
Ben gave me the impression late in then year that he was best as a clearance type player, not as a winger like his brother and old man.
The old man left as he had had enough of the coach.
Yep Ben would have played. Most VFL watchers had him as 'next in line' before he got suspended. The first half of this season is pretty important for both the Camporeale boys. I saw a couple of clips through the off season of "Who is looking good at training as judged by the players" and both the brothers got a mention or two. They are different. Ben is more a 'coalface' player. Hopefully they can push for selection but the issue they have is that their postitions are mostly the ones where we have the greater depth.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 23, 2026, 01:19:16 pm
Ben gave me the impression late in then year that he was best as a clearance type player, not as a winger like his brother and old man.
The old man left as he had had enough of the coach.
Yep Ben would have played. Most VFL watchers had him as 'next in line' before he got suspended. The first half of this season is pretty important for both the Camporeale boys. I saw a couple of clips through the off season of "Who is looking good at training as judged by the players" and both the brothers got a mention or two. They are different. Ben is more a 'coalface' player. Hopefully they can push for selection but the issue they have is that their postitions are mostly the ones where we have the greater depth.
Both look better suited to Port Adelaide imo...Port need a new Travis Boak(Ben) and have been struggling for wingers having to import Wehr from GWS. Butters for both Campos sounds fair... :o ;D
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 23, 2026, 01:39:02 pm
Yep Ben would have played. Most VFL watchers had him as 'next in line' before he got suspended. The first half of this season is pretty important for both the Camporeale boys. I saw a couple of clips through the off season of "Who is looking good at training as judged by the players" and both the brothers got a mention or two. They are different. Ben is more a 'coalface' player. Hopefully they can push for selection but the issue they have is that their postitions are mostly the ones where we have the greater depth.
Both look better suited to Port Adelaide imo...Port need a new Travis Boak(Ben) and have been struggling for wingers having to import Wehr from GWS. Butters for both Campos sounds fair... :o ;D
I'd probably take that... :D ;D Whether I'll feel the same at the end of the year....well we'll see. :-\
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 23, 2026, 02:53:23 pm
Yep Ben would have played. Most VFL watchers had him as 'next in line' before he got suspended. The first half of this season is pretty important for both the Camporeale boys. I saw a couple of clips through the off season of "Who is looking good at training as judged by the players" and both the brothers got a mention or two. They are different. Ben is more a 'coalface' player. Hopefully they can push for selection but the issue they have is that their postitions are mostly the ones where we have the greater depth.
Both look better suited to Port Adelaide imo...Port need a new Travis Boak(Ben) and have been struggling for wingers having to import Wehr from GWS. Butters for both Campos sounds fair... :o ;D
Miles Bergman is a player I would be keen on.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 23, 2026, 03:27:44 pm
We will smash Melbourne
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 23, 2026, 04:18:49 pm
Id expect to win well given Melbourne are in a bit of a rebuild, Freo who are a very good team bullied them and exposed their midfield where they have a lot of kids and they managed to neutralize Gawn and K.Pickett. My only issue would be the latter two probably dont play too many bad ones in a row and we dont have any matchup for Pickett.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: rocky on March 23, 2026, 07:20:48 pm
I’m with you Rocky in that I’m not all that confident after all yet we’ve dished up in the first 2 rounds, let’s hope G2C is on he money and we turn it on this week 🤞
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 23, 2026, 09:39:14 pm
Based on the first few rounds, I'm not confident we will smash anyone.
.....well maybe essendon.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 23, 2026, 09:50:03 pm
Id expect to win well given Melbourne are in a bit of a rebuild, Freo who are a very good team bullied them and exposed their midfield where they have a lot of kids and they managed to neutralize Gawn and K.Pickett. My only issue would be the latter two probably dont play too many bad ones in a row and we dont have any matchup for Pickett.
Last 4 Blues by 8, 1, 2, 4. I think we will win by much more this time.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 23, 2026, 10:00:54 pm
Based on the first few rounds, I'm not confident we will smash anyone.
.....well maybe essendon.
they'll set themselves for us, so currently we cant take anything for granted without a turn of form.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Adelaideblue on March 23, 2026, 10:36:56 pm
Can't understand all the negativity on Ben and Lucas Camporeale. Come on guys give them a chance.!
The fact that their dad Scott Camporeale, an accomplished footballer for Carlton went off to Essendon near the end of his playing career, is no reflection on the boys and their potential. Good luck to Scott, he only did what many on this site have been suggesting for Paddy Cripps, ie. we should trade him back to a Perth club. Also, I don't hear many ethical complaints when we trade in players from other AFL clubs.
Both Ben and Lucas were good under 18 players for SA with Ben making All Australian. Ben Camporeale was unlucky not to have played a game or two last season. The moment Paddy Cripps goes down with an injury, Ben could be just the guy we need in midfield imo.
If Carlton FC can't develop these two guys to reasonable AFl players, we haven't much future as a football club.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: DJC on March 23, 2026, 11:14:29 pm
Can't understand all the negativity on Ben and Lucas Camporeale. Come on guys give them a chance.!
The fact that their dad Scott Camporeale, an accomplished footballer for Carlton went off to Essendon near the end of his playing career, is no reflection on the boys and their potential. Good luck to Scott, he only did what many on this site have been suggesting for Paddy Cripps, ie. we should trade him back to a Perth club. Also, I don't hear many ethical complaints when we trade in players from other AFL clubs.
Both Ben and Lucas were good under 18 players for SA with Ben making All Australian. Ben Camporeale was unlucky not to have played a game or two last season. The moment Paddy Cripps goes down with an injury, Ben could be just the guy we need in midfield imo.
If Carlton FC can't develop these two guys to reasonable AFl players, we haven't much future as a football club.
You can’t “develop” players to run faster, think quicker, and execute better. We can make them fitter, teach them positioning, and eliminate bad habits.
Ben and Lucas were picks 43 and 54, and that doesn’t guarantee a successful career, regardless of any development.
I think that both Ben and Lucas have the potential to be decent AFL players, they wouldn’t have been drafted if they didn’t. Their success will depend more on their attitude and determination than anything the club can do, other than offering them opportunity and guidance.
They’ve got the capacity, but there’s more than a few ahead of them at this stage.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 24, 2026, 01:44:59 am
Id expect to win well given Melbourne are in a bit of a rebuild, Freo who are a very good team bullied them and exposed their midfield where they have a lot of kids and they managed to neutralize Gawn and K.Pickett. My only issue would be the latter two probably dont play too many bad ones in a row and we dont have any matchup for Pickett.
Last 4 Blues by 8, 1, 2, 4. I think we will win by much more this time.
25 points.....we are struggling to kick goals ourselves but Id expect a few more from Harry this week, Walsh and Smith to be BOG's with Cripps probably having a tougher outing vs Steele who has been playing well for his new club.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Adelaideblue on March 24, 2026, 08:55:14 am
Understand the point you are making DJC & LP re how other recruiters rated Ben & Lucas for them to fall to picks 43 & 45, although I wonder if the fact that we held F/S rights wasn't a factor.
Not sure why they should be better suited back here at Port EB. Guess you are saying they are the type of player Port needs in their mix with Boaky gone. However, hopefully if given a reasonable chance we will find they are a "need' here!
Sometimes I wonder why as supporters we have to be so negative on young players who have hardly been looked at. These guys, their family members must sometimes read this negativity. If so you we shouldn't be surprised if they do decide to go back from where they have come. Why poke the bear with a stick? As has been said "Carlton supporters devour their own", if true not very smart. As supporters we are part of the fabric of a football club and need to play our part for the club to have success.
Well I guess I got that off my ...back !! cheers AB
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 24, 2026, 08:59:40 am
Understand the point you are making DJC & LP re how other recruiters rated Ben & Lucas for them to fall to picks 43 & 45, although I wonder if the fact that we held F/S rights wasn't a factor.
Not sure why they should be better suited back here at Port EB. Guess you are saying they are the type of player Port needs in their mix with Boaky gone. However, hopefully if given a reasonable chance we will find they are a "need' here!
Sometimes I wonder why as supporters we have to be so negative on young players who have hardly been looked at. These guys, their family members must sometimes read this negativity. If so you we shouldn't be surprised if they do decide to go back from where they have come. Why poke the bear with a stick? As has been said "Carlton supporters devour their own", if true not very smart. As supporters we are part of the fabric of a football club and need to play our part for the club to have success.
Well I guess I got that off my ...back !! cheers AB
Is that you Adrian?
If so, welcome. No one is negative about the boys. Lucas pushed himself to the edge against hawthorn and ben hasn't even had a chance yet. Pressure is off them this year. Next year they'll need to be establishing their credentials, they just have to show they can compete at the level this year for mine.
They may not be the next superstars of the comp, but if they can complement the likes of jagga they'll be fine.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 24, 2026, 09:00:58 am
Pre-draft Lucas was rated as a rookie pick IIRC.
I don't think we got them at a bargain, i think we got them about right....maybe even a touch early.
Take away their last name.....and is the hype justified? Is their output above average? Nothing against the kids, but once you are at the club, you don't get done any favours.
They are around the 30-35 mark in terms of talent on our list......which is about where you'd expect based on where they were drafted.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: madbluboy on March 24, 2026, 09:09:42 am
This was a super strong draft that batted deep and this was a pretty comprehensive list.
1. Jagga Smith (October rank: 1) Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro MID, 181cm National Champs: 4 games, 29.3 disposals, 6.8 clearances, 4.8 marks Talent League: 12 games, 33.8 disposals, 7.9 clearances, 0.6 goals
Jagga is the 'can't miss' prospect, an inside midfielder with insatiable appetite for the contest. He's brilliantly creative, intelligently snaking into pockets of space and releasing outside runners before hitting the turbo to stay involved in transition. Smith accumulates a mountain of the ball and demands opposition attention with his ability to break open the game with class and precision. He well and truly ended any concerns around his size with brilliant VFL exploits, and now ends his top-age season where he began it for ESPN - at No. 1.
More has been spoken about the Camporeale twins than just about any draft prospect this season. Ben has been a dominant inside midfielder over the past two seasons, wrenching the ball out of the clinches and moving it forward at all costs. The knocks on Camporeale are his foot skills and athletic profile. They're valid criticisms, but if Ben can become an elite contested possession winner it won't matter as much. Twin brother Lucas is a wingman that will also make his way to Carlton.
Best traits similar to: Tim Taranto
36. Harry O'Farrell Calder Cannons/Vic Metro DEF/FWD, 196cm 2024 Champs: 2 games, 4.0 disposals, 1.5 marks Talent League: 5 games, 9.0 disposals, 3.0 marks, 0.4 goals
O'Farrell is an excellent key defensive prospect, long and rangy with swingman capabilities. He missed chunks of the season through injuries and hasn't shown an awful lot with the ball in his hand, but should remain in high demand as a lockdown key defender.
Best traits similar to: Jack Buckley
Lucas didn't make the ESPN top 50.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: madbluboy on March 24, 2026, 09:12:48 am
With Acres and Cottrell being cooked Lucas will have an easier time getting a game than Ben who would be trying to force Cripps and Hewett into retirement.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 24, 2026, 09:22:53 am
It always amazes me that definitive judgements are made on 19 year olds.
I suspect that there are many discarded by the system that had they been held onto would have developed into more than handy players...but that's the system that exists.
"Oh, but they never showed anything once they were let go" Of course they don't! They're cut loose from a high performance system. There livelihood is greatly reduced and they have to juggle work and football. Dreams are shattered and self doubt takes over. Their motivation may still be there, but the development becomes so much harder.
The skinny 19 year old and the 12 kg heavier 22 year old are completely different athletes. It will always be a case of 'what might have been' for many.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Professer E on March 24, 2026, 09:29:30 am
Ben should have played but for a woefully poor suspension. Lucas will play sooner rather than later...Cottrell is cooked and Acres is close to. I really like Cottrell but big knee, now foot issues...foot issues tend to be career threatening and I have similar fears for Billy. Our club history with foot injuries is very poor
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 24, 2026, 10:08:39 am
We are not really a development club, we prefer our kids at a more readymade level. Development and the need for instant and sustainable success every year only allows for kids like Walsh, Smith and probably Walker who can walk in round 1 and look the part. Kids on slow burn tend to end up in the twos vegetating and treading water until their contracts run out and the cycle starts again..
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 24, 2026, 11:55:52 am
It always amazes me that definitive judgements are made on 19 year olds.
Who is making definitive judgements?
Ignoring everything about the individual player and just looking at where they are drafted, thats the conclusion you will come too. Later picks and rookie picks will struggle to make it.
Now back to the players, have they shown anything at this stage to buck that trend? Not really, they are showing about what their draft value suggests. They might make it. They might not.
Not definitive at all, just statistical analysis.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Adelaideblue on March 24, 2026, 12:10:10 pm
It always amazes me that definitive judgements are made on 19 year olds.
Who is making definitive judgements?
Ignoring everything about the individual player and just looking at where they are drafted, thats the conclusion you will come too. Later picks and rookie picks will struggle to make it.
Now back to the players, have they shown anything at this stage to buck that trend? Not really, they are showing about what their draft value suggests. They might make it. They might not.
Not definitive at all, just statistical analysis.
Some would say your post 18 March 2026 , was sounding fairly definitive (& rather harsh) Mr Kruds: -
The campo twins never came highly rated. We all have expectations that they can live up to their old man, but not likely.
TBH, i don't think they will make it, and if the old man is causing an issue now, perhaps we show them the door sooner rather than later. Perhaps they'd be better off following his footsteps and pissing off to Essendon, they'd probably get a game there. More... Like
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: DJC on March 24, 2026, 12:17:37 pm
Understand the point you are making DJC & LP re how other recruiters rated Ben & Lucas for them to fall to picks 43 & 45, although I wonder if the fact that we held F/S rights wasn't a factor.
Not sure why they should be better suited back here at Port EB. Guess you are saying they are the type of player Port needs in their mix with Boaky gone. However, hopefully if given a reasonable chance we will find they are a "need' here!
Sometimes I wonder why as supporters we have to be so negative on young players who have hardly been looked at. These guys, their family members must sometimes read this negativity. If so you we shouldn't be surprised if they do decide to go back from where they have come. Why poke the bear with a stick? As has been said "Carlton supporters devour their own", if true not very smart. As supporters we are part of the fabric of a football club and need to play our part for the club to have success.
Well I guess I got that off my ...back !! cheers AB
I think that it's more a matter of patience and realism than negativity AB.
I'd much rather see Ben and Lucas taking their time, building strength and endurance, and learning the ropes than being dropped in at the deep end. Lucas has had a taste and showed that he wasn't out of place. Ben would have had his taste but for a suspension and his time will come.
From their changed physiques, training footage, and their teammates comments, they've both worked hard over the off-season. Let's see how they go when the VFL kicks off,
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 24, 2026, 12:42:11 pm
It always amazes me that definitive judgements are made on 19 year olds.
Who is making definitive judgements?
Ignoring everything about the individual player and just looking at where they are drafted, thats the conclusion you will come too. Later picks and rookie picks will struggle to make it.
Now back to the players, have they shown anything at this stage to buck that trend? Not really, they are showing about what their draft value suggests. They might make it. They might not.
Not definitive at all, just statistical analysis.
I actually wasn't even thinking about you....just the general tone of criticism of 20 year olds and unders...not just on here. But you obviously have a guilty conscience to get upset by it. :D
You've been pretty dismissive of Billy Wilson and Cooper Lord. Lets see how they go as the year progresses By the way happy birthday to Cooper for the other day, who as he reaches his 21st must be well past it ;) ;D
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 24, 2026, 03:12:13 pm
Ignoring everything about the individual player and just looking at where they are drafted, thats the conclusion you will come too. Later picks and rookie picks will struggle to make it.
Now back to the players, have they shown anything at this stage to buck that trend? Not really, they are showing about what their draft value suggests. They might make it. They might not.
Not definitive at all, just statistical analysis.
I actually wasn't even thinking about you....just the general tone of criticism of 20 year olds and unders...not just on here. But you obviously have a guilty conscience to get upset by it. :D
You've been pretty dismissive of Billy Wilson and Cooper Lord. Lets see how they go as the year progresses By the way happy birthday to Cooper for the other day, who as he reaches his 21st must be well past it ;) ;D
I wasn't suggested you were thinking about me. Was just questioning where you heard that from as i don't think anyone has been definitive on them....or anyone.
People don't like hearing that any player will not be good enough to make it. People expect everyone drafted will live up to the best versions of themselves and have a long and successful career. Anyone who even suggests otherwise is always 'negative'. TBH, its similar with Wilson and Lord. You point out i have something against them, just like others were pointing out issues with the campos. In reality, its all the same thing. Odds are stacked against them that they will make it. Of all of them, Lord is outdoing his draft status the most, but still far from a 10 year premiership player yet, albeit looking the most likely out of that group.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 24, 2026, 03:14:55 pm
Ignoring everything about the individual player and just looking at where they are drafted, thats the conclusion you will come too. Later picks and rookie picks will struggle to make it.
Now back to the players, have they shown anything at this stage to buck that trend? Not really, they are showing about what their draft value suggests. They might make it. They might not.
Not definitive at all, just statistical analysis.
Some would say your post 18 March 2026 , was sounding fairly definitive (& rather harsh) Mr Kruds: -
The campo twins never came highly rated. We all have expectations that they can live up to their old man, but not likely.
TBH, i don't think they will make it, and if the old man is causing an issue now, perhaps we show them the door sooner rather than later. Perhaps they'd be better off following his footsteps and pissing off to Essendon, they'd probably get a game there. More... Like
I don't 'think' they will make it......that is definitive??
The latter part was me taking a swipe at their grumpy old man......and Essendon....which we can never miss an opportunity to do. ;)
Do you think they are LESS likely to get a game at Essendon??
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 24, 2026, 03:43:22 pm
I actually wasn't even thinking about you....just the general tone of criticism of 20 year olds and unders...not just on here. But you obviously have a guilty conscience to get upset by it. :D
You've been pretty dismissive of Billy Wilson and Cooper Lord. Lets see how they go as the year progresses By the way happy birthday to Cooper for the other day, who as he reaches his 21st must be well past it ;) ;D
I wasn't suggested you were thinking about me. Was just questioning where you heard that from as i don't think anyone has been definitive on them....or anyone.
People don't like hearing that any player will not be good enough to make it. People expect everyone drafted will live up to the best versions of themselves and have a long and successful career. Anyone who even suggests otherwise is always 'negative'. TBH, its similar with Wilson and Lord. You point out i have something against them, just like others were pointing out issues with the campos. In reality, its all the same thing. Odds are stacked against them that they will make it. Of all of them, Lord is outdoing his draft status the most, but still far from a 10 year premiership player yet, albeit looking the most likely out of that group.
I guess there are two ways we can look at it.
We can look at the player and see things they need to work on and say "I can't see them making it" or We can look at the player and see the attributes that led them to be drafted, but also look at the areas they need to work on and say "They're still young, they will have to show continuing improvement, they may make it."
One's a postive view, the other is a negative one....in a lot of cases these views are determined by our own bias and perceptions. If the club isn't going great that may also increase our pessimism.
The thing is not every player can be a Sam Walsh or a Jagga Smith. As you point out the expectaions on high draft picks are greater.
But that doesn't mean a pick round 40 or 50 can't develop into a regular player, someone who plays over 200 games and contributes to the succes of a club. Premiership sides are full of these types of players. For some of them the early years of their careers have been years of struggle-in and out of the side until they gain the necessary experience and maturity to reach their potential.
I'l say it again, and it's something I've learnt from personal experience...the 18-19 year old athlete can be a vastly different one from the more mature and experienced 22-23 year old.
I suppose it's up to each of us to determine whether we adopt a positive or a negative attitude to the young ones. I'd prefer to give them a chance before making a firm judgement.
Ben would have played last year if not for suspension Lucas did get game time Billy Wilson got games at the end of last year and improved each one after showing good form in the VFL Lord has been a regular member of the side and been rewarded with a contract extension.
The challenge for the Camporeale boys isn't to set the world on fire this year...it's just to show improvement and play some senior football. If they do that they put themselves in a good position to gain a contract extension. If we see nothing in terms of improvement they may be in the gun. But making a judgement on their 2026 before they've even kicked a ball in anger in a serious game is probably a bit premature. You can argue they're not in the side to start with, but the depth around their positions means that they have to 'win' that place, not have it gifted.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 24, 2026, 04:08:13 pm
Nobody has said they can't make it.
Everybody hopes they do.
If you are a betting man, you bet against them based on where they were drafted. You can do that for every player drafted at a similar spot. Clearly not all of them will fail, but more of them will fail rather than make it. Thats the simple truth.
Thats not positive. Thats not negative. Thats simple statistics.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 24, 2026, 04:29:00 pm
If you are a betting man, you bet against them based on where they were drafted. You can do that for every player drafted at a similar spot. Clearly not all of them will fail, but more of them will fail rather than make it. Thats the simple truth.
Thats not positive. Thats not negative. Thats simple statistics.
No, that's a pretty negative view. You're betting against youngsters. You're betting against your club succeeding. Many of them will succeed and be really good contributors to any future success. That's a positive view.
Which ones and how many are anyone's guess? If you make predictions on individuals at age 19 and 20 there's a fair chance some of them will come back and bite you on the backside.
That's the nature of football, which has a habit of taking no notice of statistics. You may be able to point to trends...but it's no guarantee of the individual aberrations.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 24, 2026, 04:47:48 pm
If you are a betting man, you bet against them based on where they were drafted. You can do that for every player drafted at a similar spot. Clearly not all of them will fail, but more of them will fail rather than make it. Thats the simple truth.
Thats not positive. Thats not negative. Thats simple statistics.
No, that's a pretty negative view. You're betting against youngsters. You're betting against your club succeeding. Many of them will succeed and be really good contributors to any future success. That's a positive view.
Which ones and how many are anyone's guess? If you make predictions on individuals at age 19 and 20 there's a fair chance some of them will come back and bite you on the backside.
That's the nature of football, which has a habit of taking no notice of statistics. You may be able to point to trends...but it's no guarantee of the individual aberrations.
Lods, with all due respect, you are not getting it.
I'm not talking about our club. Our players. I'm talking about the entire AFL. Thats not negative, its facts. The entire points system is based off of those same ideas.
The chance of pick x being better than pick y and/or pick z is highlighted via a lookup table. Thats statistics. It doesn't take into account a players name or the club they play for, it is sheer numbers. Thats not negative. Thats reality.
Its simply a more advanced game of guessing what number will be rolled on a die. Any number COULD come up at any time. Long term, there is clear trends and that is that the numbers will come up relatively evenly. The die doesn't care if #6 is your favourite number. The die doesn't care if #6 worked well for you previously. Long term, the results will be the results and they are predictable. The short term is unpredictable, but will always work towards the same trend.....bucking that trend is the unlikely.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 24, 2026, 05:16:21 pm
No, that's a pretty negative view. You're betting against youngsters. You're betting against your club succeeding. Many of them will succeed and be really good contributors to any future success. That's a positive view.
Which ones and how many are anyone's guess? If you make predictions on individuals at age 19 and 20 there's a fair chance some of them will come back and bite you on the backside.
That's the nature of football, which has a habit of taking no notice of statistics. You may be able to point to trends...but it's no guarantee of the individual aberrations.
Lods, with all due respect, you are not getting it.
I'm not talking about our club. Our players. I'm talking about the entire AFL. Thats not negative, its facts. The entire points system is based off of those same ideas.
The chance of pick x being better than pick y and/or pick z is highlighted via a lookup table. Thats statistics. It doesn't take into account a players name or the club they play for, it is sheer numbers. Thats not negative. Thats reality.
Its simply a more advanced game of guessing what number will be rolled on a die. Any number COULD come up at any time. Long term, there is clear trends and that is that the numbers will come up relatively evenly. The die doesn't care if #6 is your favourite number. The die doesn't care if #6 worked well for you previously. Long term, the results will be the results and they are predictable. The short term is unpredictable, but will always work towards the same trend.....bucking that trend is the unlikely.
With all due respect Kruds You've moved from individual player assessment to an argument over stats Don't judge on the likelihood of a statistic coming to fruition Assess the players, not just in their initial games, but over a body of work.
I understand the statistics A pick 3 is a better chance of playing two hundred games than a pick 50 But if statistics were the only factor in football there would be no tipping competitions. Results would follow the stats Football is an unpredictable game, possibly one of the most unpredicatble in the world due to the shape of the ball and conrolling it, and a whole range of factors like momentum changes...just look at last weekends results.
But you're not relying on stats are you? You're identifying individual players and saying you don't think they'll make it. Is that based solely on where they were picked up? Surely it's a bit deeper than that.
Lucas Ben Cooper Billy
Will they all fail? Will they all make it? Will it be a half-half Who knows. I'd rather we just concentrate on their individual journey's and enjoy watching their development. If they don't improve we can wait for the next batch.
But "I don't think they'll make it" ...is just a guess, one that once entrenched is hard to shake, and leads to a bias where every bit of bad play is highlighted in a match thread and every bit of good play is ignored.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 24, 2026, 05:48:41 pm
Its not the only factor, but its one that you ignore at your own peril and will ultimately give you a better judgement than your emotional eye.
I've said i don't think they will make it and i've said its because i don't see anything 'outstanding' about them. Shifter Sheahan always says you need to be elite at 'something'....and i don't see it. This is also backed up by pre-draft rankings. This is also backed up by draft day picks. That is, 18 teams all had similar thinking.....that there was not anything to get too excited about with them.
Are they elite ball users? Are they elite pace, endurance, agility? Are they elite thinkers? I can't say yes to any of them.
IMO, they are slower than average. Less skilled than average and do nothing elite to compensate.
Now there are plenty of those types who end up making it. Someone like Fraser Brown for example has similar traits and areas of need.....but he also had an elite tenacity and desire to compete that helped him out, never more highlighted by 'that tackle' where he simply would not be outdone.
So with that assessment, by the experts, the 18 clubs, statistical representation and by myself....expectations are low. Is that definitive? No. Is that negative? I don't think so. Does that mean i don't hope and want the best for them? No, i hope they succeed as much as anyone.
However, when i'm picking my 2030 team and trying to find areas of need that need filling. Its not in the middle with Jagga, Walker, Walsh......but it might be with those underneath them and on the wings.....Lord, Campos x2, Wilson etc They are not 'locks'. Until then, keep drafting.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 24, 2026, 06:36:41 pm
Im prepared to give the Campo's another 2 years, Im probably old school with father and sons and want to give them every opportunity as there is that connection to success Im clinging onto plus I like that Ashcroft/Daicos type of situation with two brothers in the team. Kruds analysis of their pros and cons is fairly accurate and they probably lack in the areas we need them to be extra special in like disposal by foot and leg speed but I think both are footballers rather than athletes and in Bens case his blue collar approach will compliment the more silky Walker and Smith and he would be a good backup for Walsh moving forward. Cripps and Hewett are in the back end of their careers and its going to be tougher finding replacements given Tassie will dominate the future drafts for a while. Lucas was ok in his debut imo and showed something and its been disappointing seeing him not kick on. Having a leftie on the wing reminds me of Amon and D'Ambrosio at Hawthorn and Gulden at the Swans and there is something I just like about Lefties delivering the ball forward but he needs opportunity at senior level to improve his disposal under pressure. re: Lord....like what he offers as I have said previously, 2 way player who competes like he cares. re: Wilson....dont think he is senior level at this stage and I would probably have him in the delist basket at seasons end.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 24, 2026, 09:34:17 pm
No one is negative about the boys. Lucas pushed himself to the edge against hawthorn and ben hasn't even had a chance yet. Pressure is off them this year. Next year they'll need to be establishing their credentials, they just have to show they can compete at the level this year for mine.
I agree with all that except the "pressure off" aspect, I think the alleged expectations of their old man pile on the pressure unnecessarily. Of course the rumours might be bullsh1t, but if they aren't he's calling for a position of privilege that demands a level of performance.
I'd much rather they are eased into it, which is another good argument for bigger lists, but if the rumours are true he probably wouldn't accept them getting a lower paycheque. ::)
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 25, 2026, 09:16:43 am
Ignoring everything about the individual player and just looking at where they are drafted, thats the conclusion you will come too. Later picks and rookie picks will struggle to make it.
Now back to the players, have they shown anything at this stage to buck that trend? Not really, they are showing about what their draft value suggests. They might make it. They might not.
Not definitive at all, just statistical analysis.
I actually wasn't even thinking about you....just the general tone of criticism of 20 year olds and unders...not just on here. But you obviously have a guilty conscience to get upset by it. :D
You've been pretty dismissive of Billy Wilson and Cooper Lord. Lets see how they go as the year progresses By the way happy birthday to Cooper for the other day, who as he reaches his 21st must be well past it ;) ;D
In fairness, the expectations on 20 something year olds is pretty low (globally, across all walks of life).
At 16 you are expected to start setting goals, and working out how to go about achieving them. At 20, usually you are commencing that journey, with the biggest push towards it happening a couple of years earlier.
At 20, they are only young, they are inexperienced, they dont know. By contrast, 50 years ago, my dad was 21, newly married with the first born on the way.
Hell, myself I can describe as having it a little different. I was 21, and doing more work on my social life, than in my career, learning and personal development, with the end result being not much until after my dad passed away which sort of shocked me into life, and made me re-assess where I was, and what I was doing.
I spent the majority of the next 10 years, realising I had frittled away a few years there, but over time, I have come to appreciate, that without doing it, perhaps I wouldnt have been able to set my radar correctly.
Either way, Im less critical these days. You never know whats happening on the journey, and even on game day when they are out on the field, we have seen players commit an action over a dozen times, from a dozen different people. Odds are the 20 year olds making those mistakes, are making those mistakes for the first time, and its part of their growth journey and it isnt an indicator of whether or not they will or wont make it. Some of that is down to luck.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: DJC on March 25, 2026, 10:20:00 am
No one is negative about the boys. Lucas pushed himself to the edge against hawthorn and ben hasn't even had a chance yet. Pressure is off them this year. Next year they'll need to be establishing their credentials, they just have to show they can compete at the level this year for mine.
I agree with all that except the "pressure off" aspect, I think the alleged expectations of their old man pile on the pressure unnecessarily. Of course the rumours might be bullsh1t, but if they aren't he's calling for a position of privilege that demands a level of performance.
I'd much rather they are eased into it, which is another good argument for bigger lists, but if the rumours are true he probably wouldn't accept them getting a lower paycheque. ::)
Scott is an experienced coach who would fully understand the pressures on young players and the intense competition for spots in an AFL team. I’m pretty sure that he would also understand that parental interference and/or commentary won’t help.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 25, 2026, 10:44:27 am
Both the mental aspect and statistical aspect can play a part in predicting an outcome on a player...and yes, luck is also a factor-right place, right time, right coaches.
My original point was that a skinny 19-20 year old is not the same player as a 22-23 year old with 3-4 pre-seasons in a high performance strength and conditioning program. Add to that the years of experience learning the tricks at an elite level and it 'can' be a completely different footballer. So speculating that an individual won't make it is just a guess.
Statistics may give you a trend that shows the further down the draft the less chance of a long career, but there are enough exceptions to that rule to show that each player needs to be looked at as an individual rather than a draft pick.
@Kruddler-When Sheahan made his comment about players having to have at least one 'elite' quality was he talking about at AFL level or at under 18 level. Because deep into the draft those picked up would probably register one elite aspect to their play at that u/18 level. And at AFL level there would be plenty of footsoldiers who wouldn't register as elite in any category.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 25, 2026, 11:05:17 am
Both the mental aspect and statistical aspect can play a part in predicting an outcome on a player...and yes, luck is also a factor-right place, right time, right coaches.
My original point was that a skinny 19-20 year old is not the same player as a 22-23 year old with 3-4 pre-seasons in a high performance strength and conditioning program. Add to that the years of experience learning the tricks at an elite level and it 'can' be a completely different footballer. So speculating that an individual won't make it is just a guess.
Statistics may give you a trend that shows the further down the draft the less chance of a long career, but there are enough exceptions to that rule to show that each player needs to be looked at as an individual rather than a draft pick.
@Kruddler-When Sheahan made his comment about players having to have at least one 'elite' quality was he talking about at AFL level or at under 18 level. Because deep into the draft those picked up would probably register one elite aspect to their play at that u/18 level. And at AFL level there would be plenty of footsoldiers who wouldn't register as elite in any category.
It takes a bit of everything to be an AFL footballer.
Elite pace is nothing without something else that is average to above average.
Elite ball winning is nothing if you cant hit a target.
Elite marking is nothing if you cant kick it.
Elite kicking is nothing if you cant get the ball.
All of the above are useless, if you have no smarts.
Give me smart footballers, that have a work ethic, and you will see a flag winning outfit sooner or later, with a sprinkle of players that have elite qualities.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: madbluboy on March 25, 2026, 11:10:29 am
You can't play too many 18 -20 year olds no matter how good they are for their age.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: DJC on March 25, 2026, 11:19:36 am
Kevin Sheehan's AFL footballers' key attributes: 1. Clean hands (as in ball handling rather than hygiene). 2. Good disposal by hand and foot on both sides. 3. Sufficient athleticism - at least one of speed, agility and endurance. 4. Footy nous. 5. Positive attitude - great teammate, great self-belief and having great fun playing footy.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 25, 2026, 12:02:08 pm
Scott is an experienced coach who would fully understand the pressures on young players and the intense competition for spots in an AFL team. I’m pretty sure that he would also understand that parental interference and/or commentary won’t help.
If we looked at this objectively, analytically, without the influence of blood, then I hope we would find this to be correct.
I've seen too often firsthand at the Dev level how it all changes when it concerns a child or sibling. From dozens or perhaps even hundreds of cases as most seasons involve more than ten players across the competition in similar circumstances. I can count on one hand the instances when personal influence and bias were set aside by people in a position of privilege, the exceptions stand out because it's so so rare. Actually from a distance I'd say our current coach was one of those cases, Voss walked the walked on Casey's AFL career attempt, he kept it at arm's length, as such it would be impossible to accuse Voss or his son of nepotism or a conflict of interest. Voss didn't just talk the talk like some, he lived it, that is a level of integrity most never achieve, think of the willpower it takes to do this!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 25, 2026, 01:09:26 pm
\@Kruddler-When Sheahan made his comment about players having to have at least one 'elite' quality was he talking about at AFL level or at under 18 level. Because deep into the draft those picked up would probably register one elite aspect to their play at that u/18 level. And at AFL level there would be plenty of footsoldiers who wouldn't register as elite in any category.
I don't think he specified that specifically, but are they not one and the same? If someone has elite speed at U18 level, will he not have elite speed at AFL level? et al.
He's been pretty consistent about this over decades. Part of the focus is to simply stand out and get noticed. People at the head of the queue, in any category, are har to overlook and ignore. Some of those categories that are less about athletics, would be footy smarts and disposal. Some of those types would be your foot soldiers at AFL level.....along with tenacity, drive etc.
Ultimately, it comes down to this, and this is something i've tried to point out to my son. You need to be able to be better than your opponent in something. How do you get the ball? You need to have either.... - Better endurance - Better speed - Better agility - More stength - More smarts - knowing when/where to go. knowing which way the ball will bounce, fly in the air, bounce off a pack. When to leave your opponent and attack etc.
Without one of them, you will find it hard to get the ball.
Of course there are football skills, marking, kicking, tackling etc as well, but most of that works off the back of getting the ball, or getting in a position to get the ball.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 25, 2026, 07:41:18 pm
\@Kruddler-When Sheahan made his comment about players having to have at least one 'elite' quality was he talking about at AFL level or at under 18 level. Because deep into the draft those picked up would probably register one elite aspect to their play at that u/18 level. And at AFL level there would be plenty of footsoldiers who wouldn't register as elite in any category.
I don't think he specified that specifically, but are they not one and the same? If someone has elite speed at U18 level, will he not have elite speed at AFL level? et al.
I do think it's different Would you say someone like Matthew Watson was elite at u/18 level. Good mark excellent long kick. He was a man-child and had probably jumped ahead of his peers at that level. He was an All Australian at that level...but it didn't translate to senior football and he became a much maligned player. For some it works in reverse. They struggle to make an impact as a youngster just scraping onto a list but blossom once they get the opportunity and proper training and guidance.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 25, 2026, 09:16:02 pm
I don't think he specified that specifically, but are they not one and the same? If someone has elite speed at U18 level, will he not have elite speed at AFL level? et al.
I do think it's different Would you say someone like Matthew Watson was elite at u/18 level. Good mark excellent long kick. He was a man-child and had probably jumped ahead of his peers at that level. He was an All Australian at that level...but it didn't translate to senior football and he became a much maligned player. For some it works in reverse. They struggle to make an impact as a youngster just scraping onto a list but blossom once they get the opportunity and proper training and guidance.
I can't comment too much on Watson specifically as i didn't watch his u18 stuff. He certainly was a man child though. He was AA u18 chb iirc, but that doesn't say much because Paul Bower shared that same honour in his individual draft year.
Theres always outliers for every example which I've happily admitted. That's also part of statistics. But the more data you get the clearer it all becomes, even if there are outliers.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 26, 2026, 12:54:57 am
I do think it's different Would you say someone like Matthew Watson was elite at u/18 level. Good mark excellent long kick. He was a man-child and had probably jumped ahead of his peers at that level. He was an All Australian at that level...but it didn't translate to senior football and he became a much maligned player. For some it works in reverse. They struggle to make an impact as a youngster just scraping onto a list but blossom once they get the opportunity and proper training and guidance.
I can't comment too much on Watson specifically as i didn't watch his u18 stuff. He certainly was a man child though. He was AA u18 chb iirc, but that doesn't say much because Paul Bower shared that same honour in his individual draft year.
Theres always outliers for every example which I've happily admitted. That's also part of statistics. But the more data you get the clearer it all becomes, even if there are outliers.
We'll agree to disagree. Statistically it's harder for a late draft pick to succeed But we shouldn't be influenced by where they were picked, but by what they produce...and at 18-19 few have reached their full poential. I coached athletes of all ages for around 30 years across a range of disciplines The 18-19 year old was either not in the same league as the same athlete at 22-23...or life commitments had taken over and athletics took a back seat as Uni and work took over..,and the athlete is lost.
I just can't see it being any different for footballers...either the best is yet to come, or they will get cut before they reach their full potential. Life will then take over from football because it becomes difficult to juggle work and football when you lose the benefits in terms of training and coaching... and importantly financially. I suspect that once cut it becomes very difficult to find your way back on a senior list...but some do.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: townsendcalling on March 26, 2026, 12:04:46 pm
Cerra and Newman will not be considered due to lack of match fitness. Fair call
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: DJC on March 26, 2026, 12:23:18 pm
Cerra and Newman will not be considered due to lack of match fitness. Fair call
Newey had only played limited minutes in VFL practice matches before his brain fade and suspension. Both need a run in the VFL to demonstrate whether they're ready for a recall.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: rocky on March 26, 2026, 01:27:30 pm
Cerra and Newman will not be considered due to lack of match fitness. Fair call
Great call. If they can both get through without issue, fine. In Cerra's case, lets pick blokes with durability
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Sexybronco on March 26, 2026, 02:21:36 pm
Taylor Byrne set to play this Sunday according to Riley Beveridge, he’ll be a welcome spark to our team although he’ll be on managed time due to limited fitness.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 26, 2026, 02:58:57 pm
Taylor Byrne set to play this Sunday according to Riley Beveridge, he’ll be a welcome spark to our team although he’ll be on managed time due to limited fitness.
Seems to have a bit of s h i t about too. Go well son.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 26, 2026, 03:07:34 pm
Taylor Byrne set to play this Sunday according to Riley Beveridge, he’ll be a welcome spark to our team although he’ll be on managed time due to limited fitness.
Hopefully taking Fogarty's spot
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 26, 2026, 03:09:30 pm
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Thryleon on March 27, 2026, 03:36:16 pm
He has a face that you want to punch.
Most of the players that have a face that you want to punch and are employed by our opposition are all guns, and they have a smirk about them like Byrne does.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 27, 2026, 05:09:12 pm
IN: Byrne + Evans OUT: Lord (illness) Fogarty (omitted)
Sorry fog, but that needed to happen and thank F*** they had the balls to do it.
I reckon Young and Elijah would be next on the list of people who should be worried.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: DJC on March 27, 2026, 05:24:37 pm
We'll miss Coop but our forward looks more potent with Frankie and Byrner - if the latter can bring what he showed in the practice matches.
Who plays all the midfield minutes that Lord was playing? Have to think Evans will play some....who else?
I would've brought someone like Acres in to allow our wingers to play more midfield.
Good question Kruds: I wonder if Ben Ainsworth might be given some time through the midfield. Sounds like he played there successfully during his time at Gold Coast.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: DJC on March 27, 2026, 05:59:55 pm
We'll miss Coop but our forward looks more potent with Frankie and Byrner - if the latter can bring what he showed in the practice matches.
Who plays all the midfield minutes that Lord was playing? Have to think Evans will play some....who else?
I would've brought someone like Acres in to allow our wingers to play more midfield.
Lord was basically our defensive or run with midfielder and I think that whoever has that role has to be set for it, rather than part timers sharing it. Of course, Melbourne's midfield isn't as strong as it was and we may not bother with a defensive mid other than Hewett doing his normal stuff.
Most of our general forwards are spending time in the midfield but I'd expect Lij and Williams to do the lion's share. Byrner could get a go too if he's coping with the pressure and tempo.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: kruddler on March 27, 2026, 06:11:09 pm
Who plays all the midfield minutes that Lord was playing? Have to think Evans will play some....who else?
I would've brought someone like Acres in to allow our wingers to play more midfield.
Lord was basically our defensive or run with midfielder and I think that whoever has that role has to be set for it, rather than part timers sharing it. Of course, Melbourne's midfield isn't as strong as it was and we may not bother with a defensive mid other than Hewett doing his normal stuff.
Most of our general forwards are spending time in the midfield but I'd expect Lij and Williams to do the lion's share. Byrner could get a go too if he's coping with the pressure and tempo.
After i wrote that before i had the thought that Williams might get more minutes.....but as you highlighted it should be a defensive mid....which doesn't fill me with confidence, despite him training as a defender.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 27, 2026, 06:46:47 pm
Changes make sense, Chesser Elijah and maybe even Ollie H should consider themselves very lucky.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 27, 2026, 06:51:14 pm
Changes make sense, Chesser Elijah and maybe even Ollie H should consider themselves very lucky.
I don't mind giving them another game vs a weak Melbourne midfield where we should dominate.If they can't get a kick vs the Dees kids and battler mids then their futures are grim..
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 27, 2026, 07:00:23 pm
Changes make sense, Chesser Elijah and maybe even Ollie H should consider themselves very lucky.
I don't mind giving them another game vs a weak Melbourne midfield where we should dominate.If they can't get a kick vs the Dees kids and battler mids then their futures are grim..
I guess so, when you look at what's in the cupboard to replace them, they are either underdone or haven't set the world on fire during the PS. That needs to change to put some serious pressure on the under performers.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Lods on March 27, 2026, 08:59:09 pm
reminds me of Toby Greene and jack ginivan Connor macdonald from hawthorn and James Sicily too. Jamie Elliott. I dont know how to explain it, they just look like smart asses.
Theres a common theme there.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 28, 2026, 12:05:34 pm
It's amazing how quickly fans forget.
It was about this time last year when his EH started going through all the turmoil that OH was basically only one of a handful actually having a crack. When he probably had every right to be distracted, I think he comfortably finished in the team's top 10 leaving some others to look more like passengers.
I like Lord as well, I don't get some of the negativity towards him, but in comparison OH is a step up on Lord and comfortably so.
Neither have even reached 3 full seasons yet, which most coaches imply is the true start of a career.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 29, 2026, 12:52:49 pm
Saw a snippet of a video from the Australian dressing rooms during a World Cup. Warner was saying how he was scared to go for his shots for fear of getting put. Punter immediately jumped in and said how you need to go for your shots without any any fear of getting out from a mistake, back in your skills and training. He said the minute you think like that (scare) you're gone and it gets worse. He went on to talk about how they didnt have the World Cup so there was nothing to lose. Point is, our blokes must have that same mentality, take it on, dont be scared to make mistakes, stay positive and back yourself in. I thought it was a brilliant clip of Ponting, what a leader.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: northernblue on March 29, 2026, 05:22:20 pm
Saw a snippet of a video from the Australian dressing rooms during a World Cup. Warner was saying how he was scared to go for his shots for fear of getting put. Punter immediately jumped in and said how you need to go for your shots without any any fear of getting out from a mistake, back in your skills and training. He said the minute you think like that (scare) you're gone and it gets worse. He went on to talk about how they didnt have the World Cup so there was nothing to lose. Point is, our blokes must have that same mentality, take it on, dont be scared to make mistakes, stay positive and back yourself in. I thought it was a brilliant clip of Ponting, what a leader.
Need some fans to comprehend this mindset because as much as the players understand it the fans pile on the pressure
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: dodge on March 29, 2026, 07:02:43 pm
We are the Vo Rogue of footy, except Vo Rogue won ~30% of his races.
I think someone else has mentioned it - trying to win a marathon in the first 100 metres. Time to try something different.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 3 2026 Pre Game Prognostications Carlton vs Melbourne
Post by: LP on March 29, 2026, 07:06:33 pm