Reflecting on the Blues’ win against Port Adelaide on Saturday, Carlton’s experienced defender Kade Simpson said he was “actually pretty confident” they could beat the Power.

Simpson played a vital role for the Blues down back gathering 21 disposals and getting his fingertips on a match-saving play in the dying stages.

“It might sound funny to say but I was actually pretty confident going into yesterday,” Simpson told on SEN on Sunday.

“I think we’ve just sort of simplified things, we’re just focusing on the effort and if the boys bring that win, lose or draw, John Barker is pretty happy,” he said.

Simpson admitted the coaches hadn’t talked about the game plan, or even changed it, for now it’s all about attacking the ball and the opposition.

Meanwhile, with the retirement of champion midfielder Chris Judd two weeks ago, Simpson said it’s given some of the younger boys more of an opportunity – including Nick Graham.

Graham had a breakout game against Port Adelaide, kicking two goals, racking up 18 possessions and laying seven tackles.

“I think with another spot in the midfield opening up you’ll definitely see more of him … he’s going well,” Simpson said.