Quote:
CARLTON
LAST YEAR: 8th THIS YEAR: 9th
WHAT'S BETTER: Carlton's rivals have been watching the Blues' pre-season program with interest, and all have remarked upon the greater attention being paid to defensive qualities, driven by new assistant coach Gavin Brown, fresh out of a club which in that regard knows no peer. There were considerable gains out of 2010 which, logically, should be improved upon further, the rise of Jordan Russell and Robbie Warnock, a new-look forward set-up in which not only goalsneaks like Eddie Betts and Jeff Garlett play big roles, but keys like Lachie Henderson, Jarrad Waite and a remade Andrew Walker can play bigger parts still. And Matthew Kreuzer's return from serious injury can't come quickly enough, the big man capable of playing in the ruck, forward, or as a dangerous on-baller.
WHAT'S WORSE: It's an old story, the reliance upon skipper Chris Judd, but it's one seemingly no closer to conclusion, the now dual Brownlow medallist winning the Blues' best and fairest each of the three years he's been there, with daylight second. As steady as they've been, it really is time for Marc Murphy and Bryce Gibbs to find a higher gear, because without it, Carlton simply still doesn't have enough armoury, and beyond that trio, perhaps not quite enough midfield silk.
WHO'LL HOG THE HEADLINES: Brett Ratten. Can't think of too many latter-day coaches who've worn as much flak as this bloke (and wrongly in my view) for coaching his team to two successive finals appearances. But there remains a significant push both outside and inside the club who believe the Blues should have climbed further than they have, and already enough signs over summer that the issue will continue to bubble. Winning a final appears to be the minimum mark Ratten will be allowed if he is to remain in the gig beyond this season.
Also:
Fantasty Football: CarltonDon't be deceived, it's about the best 22.
Back to the article, he's essentially predicting that the top 8 will be the same names except us. We're the slider. Sure Rohan, that's a balanced view when you have Sydney, Geelong, Freo & Hawthorn in the mix.
Login
Register
FAQ
what a tool.
