Carlton coach Michael Voss praised his “proud” midfield for their dominant performance against Gold Coast, which helped propel the Blues back into the AFL’s top eight.
Despite struggling with goal kicking and failing to capitalize on their control around the ball in the first half at Marvel Stadium on Saturday, Carlton pulled ahead in the third quarter. Key contested marks and goals by Charlie Curnow secured the momentum, leading to a 15.12 (102) to 11.7 (73) victory.
Curnow’s four goals in the second half, alongside four from Zac Williams, were crucial in the attack before 39,597 fans. Patrick Cripps was a powerhouse in the midfield, collecting 31 disposals and 13 clearances, while Sam Walsh (32 disposals) and ruckman Tom De Koning (25 touches, 10 clearances) also stood out.
The Blues outperformed in uncontested possessions (270-156), contested possessions (132-111), and clearances (44-32).
“Our mids are a very proud group and had a tough game against a strong Sydney team last week. They rebounded well,” Voss said. “We needed to focus on our pressure on the ball, and today, we delivered when it mattered.”
Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick acknowledged his team’s struggles, attributing their loss to being overwhelmed in contested ball and clearances. “Their midfield outplayed ours,” Hardwick admitted.
The Suns’ early dominance by Mac Andrew and three goals by Ben King weren’t enough to overcome Carlton. Blues fans were frustrated with receiving just four free kicks in the first three quarters, prompting Carlton to address the issue with the AFL.
Gold Coast faced a setback with Sam Flanders out due to illness, replaced by Alex Davies. Carlton moved to sixth place with the win, starting strong and securing the game with improved goal kicking in the latter quarters.
“We had to persist and trust our gameplay,” Voss stated.
The Blues (7-4) will visit Port Adelaide on Thursday, while the Suns (6-5) host Essendon at People First Stadium next Sunday.
