Carlton will be striving to take home the four points against St Kilda on Sunday afternoon, in what will mark Andrew Walker’s final game in the navy blue jumper.
After two interstate trips in a fortnight, the Blues return to the MCG to take on the tenth-placed Saints – a team they succumbed to in Round 12 at Etihad Stadium.
The Blues will no doubt be hoping for a different result this weekend.
Addressing the media on Friday morning, Carlton coach Brendon Bolton praised Walker’s long career and urged members to turn up and support a great servant of the Club.
“He’s the first Indigenous Carlton player to play 200 games, so he deserves the respect and he’s really eager to play this game,” Bolton said.
“We’ve now reached 50,000 members so I’d encourage as many as they can to come out and salute ‘Walks’ because he’s had a terrific career.”
When asked if the fans might see one more hanger from Walker, Bolton laughed: “I think we’d all be smiling if there was”.
If the Blues are to walk away with the win, Bolton highlighted the need for sustained pressure and says he anticipates another physical contest.
“I know what to expect from last time (we played), they were really physical in and around the contest,” Bolton said.
“‘Richo’ is a good coach, he’s got them well drilled and the youngsters are now progressing with a number of games under their belt.”
Last time these two sides met, Jack Steven had 25 disposals and kicked three goals, while Tim Membrey booted five majors for the Saints.
Speaking in the lead-up to the game, St Kilda coach Alan Richardson commended the Blues’ effort and competitiveness over the last three weeks.
“They’ve certainly been strong, they’ve played quality teams in recent times and been more than competitive, they’ve been in the game really late,” Richardson said.
“We expect them to be really strong and we’ll need to be at our best to be in the game.”
Richardson also highlighted Carlton’s clear direction under Bolton, noting its system has been proven to challenge many teams.
“Clearly under ‘Bolts’ they’ve got real clarity around what it looks like in terms of the way they want to play and they’re playing with real energy, spirit and understanding, and that presents some challenges for any team; we look forward to taking them on,” Richardson said.
The Blues have added experience to their side with Walker and Dale Thomas named in the extended squad, as well as midfielder Mark Whiley.
Meanwhile St Kilda has named, Sam Fisher, Cameron Shenton and Jason Holmes in its 25-man squad.
The final teams will be announced on Friday evening.
Carlton takes on St Kilda this Sunday at the MCG, with the match kicking off at 1:10pm.
We’d love to see as many Bluebaggers as possible fill the stadium to not only cheer on the team, but also give Andrew Walker a final game he will never forget.
To secure your tickets, click here.
