17th Premiership wrote:
Yeah, when the primary concern with our team is second half fade outs, I feel like bringing back three underdone and/or potentially not-quite-ready-after-hamstring players is kinda asking for trouble.
I think this is the logic behind the non selection of the usual Best 23 players Haynes Cerra and Saad, and imo Newman hasn't had enough preseason game time to prove he's a 4 quarter player, despite looking the play maker in the half he played in the VFL...3 weeks ago.
So, I'm happy with the team. I expect Acres, Evans and Fogarty to be emergencies. Evans for the same reason as others being overlooked; knee.
The MC have shown faith and trust in Dean, or, the MC were committed to giving him a decent block of games to see what he's like when fit to play 4 quarters, after cramping in the 4th vs Swans on a putrid humid night.
Really hope Boyd is given the nod to play. He's had a really good preseason. Should be really hungry to make a fist of this opportunity (if it happens) with Saad, Newman, wilson breathing down his neck.
I can see Ollie playing wing and Cowan playing HB. If so, I hope Cowan stops the bombing down the line, and be brave enough to take on the opposition with his gift of speed. I didn't have him in my team for this week and I really thought Saady would be fit enough to come straight in. Cowan is a beauty when he plays his way.
Carlton haven't lost a game with less than 7 players missing from Best 23 in 2025 and 2026. This week, 3 out injured (O'Farrell, Motlop, Lord), and grooming 4 players Best 23 players in VFL (Saad Haynes Cerra and Newman) for following week, gives us less than 7 missing from our Best 23. This alone gives me more reason to expect a win this Sunday.
One week at a time ... we've had 17 days to gel the team further ... set for another W for our AFL team ... fielding a strong VFL team ... depth in VFL gives us option to rest 4-5 players against North on Good Friday, after a 5 day break.....even more reason to think our season is back on track.
Love the Byrne. So excited to see this kid in the big time on the G. Good luck to him on his debut.
Go Blues.