I was at the ground and the atmosphere was great - it almost felt like a home game. I know the Blues have a good supporter base in Queensland, but there were a lot who travelled. There might have been slightly more Brisbane fans at the ground (just), but the Blues fans seemed louder. Well done, my Carlton comrades!
We couldn’t have played much better in the first quarter, but 23 points was not enough reward for the effort. Brisbane were always going to come back - they have been through too much over the past couple of years and been too good this season to just roll over. Although it was disappointing to surrender the lead in the 2nd term, I think we lost the game in the 3rd quarter. It was the premiership quarter and Brisbane were too good. Simple as that.
Yes it was pleasing that we fought the game out, and we could have got even closer if we’d nailed more opportunities in the final term, but the reality is that Brisbane missed plenty of chances themselves and could have won by more.
Coming off the ground, some of the players - especially Saad & Boyd - looked genuinely upset.
Speaking of Boyd, I thought he easily justified his selection. He could be a serious player for us next year if he avoids injury.
I would much rather be in the GF than not, but I can’t disagree with those saying that beating Collingwood next week would have been a bridge too far for our tired & sore players. Frankly, I think Brisbane is better placed than us to keep Collingwood away from #16…
GO LIONS!