2005 – that’s the last time Carlton played Port Adelaide at the MCG. On that occasion the Power came out on top, winning by 14 points.
Ten years later and the two sides return to the home of football. The only question that remains: can Carlton level the ledger at the ‘G?
Fresh from the bye, Carlton coach John Barker says the team is feeling “rejuvenated” and hoping to build on the competitive form they showed against the Crows.
Port Adelaide lost to Geelong last week at Adelaide Oval, raising questions around the Power’s form, but Barker’s not buying in.
“Port Adelaide is a very well coached and drilled team, they ran Hawthorn to within an inch in a preliminary final – we’re under no illusions of how good a football team they are,” he said.
The two clubs have played 27 times, with the Power holding the ledger 15 wins to Carlton’s 11 – including one draw.
Carlton fans have probably tried to forget the last time these sides played. Port Adelaide dominated, defeating the Blues by 103 points at Adelaide Oval in Round 22 last year – 20.20.140 to 5.7.37.
In that game Power midfielder Robbie Gray was on fire, kicking four goals and racking up 31 disposals, while Bryce Gibbs was the best for the Blues with 29 touches and four tackles.
Gibbs, who missed two matches with a back injury, returns to the line-up this week, as well as experienced defender Chris Yarran.
Port will be without speedster Matt White after he tore his hamstring last week against Geelong.
During the week, Power ruckman Matthew Lobbe said the Blues were playing with greater freedom – making them a dangerous prospect.
"Last [game] against the Crows they looked like that and I'm sure they'll be doing that again," Lobbe said.
"It means they're probably willing to run and take the game on, and be a little bit more unpredictable.”
Carlton hosts Port Adelaide at the MCG on Saturday afternoon at 1.40pm. To book your tickets, click here
