It seems only fitting the day Carlton farewells its champion Chris Judd, two rising champions of our game will battle it out on the MCG: Carlton’s Patrick Cripps and Melbourne’s Jesse Hogan.
For the first time this season Carlton and Melbourne will go head-to-head.
Cripps, a big-bodied midfielder and Hogan, a key forward, have both had breakout seasons, each earning AFL NAB Rising Star nominations. Their form has been so impressive it’s even warranted some in the industry to compare their stats with those of past champions.
In a year where both sides have struggled, the two young guns have been shining lights for their respective teams.
After suffering a 98-point thrashing by the Western Bulldogs last week, Melbourne currently sits 14th on the ladder, while Carlton’s disappointing loss to Brisbane has placed the Blues on the bottom of the table.
During the week, Melbourne coach Paul Roos said his Demons need “to play like maniacs and play as hard as they possibly can” this Sunday.
“This week is about us and how we respond…we have to respond in a manner befitting the poor effort last weekend,” Roos said.
The last time these two sides met was all the way back in Round 4 last year, which saw the Demons break a seven-game losing streak to Carlton and record a 23-point victory: 12.9 (81) to 7.16 (58).
In that match Carlton’s Ed Curnow was Blues’ highest possession winner racking up 33 touches, while for the Demons it was hard-nut Nathan Jones who gathered 28 disposals.
This week’s game will also mark the first time former Blue Jeff Garlett plays against his old team, after being traded to Melbourne at the end of last season. Like any player who lines up against his old club, there’s no doubt he’ll be out to impress.
In a week that has seen Carlton’s Lachie Henderson leave the Blues, coach John Barker will only be filling a team with players who value pulling on the navy blue jumper.
“It’s important that we are really competitive every time we go out on the track,” Barker said on Thursday.
“Our players need to assume the responsibility that comes with the Carlton guernsey and that means being fierce with your competitiveness and giving four quarters of strong intent.”
The Blues regain big forward Levi Casboult, speedster Jason Tutt and young gun Troy Menzel, while Melbourne has made five changes to its extended squad.
With both teams having something to prove, Carlton will need to fight to the end to make sure they farewell Chris Judd with a victory.
So make sure you’re at the game this Sunday afternoon at the MCG to see Carlton take on Melbourne.
And don’t forget to stay in your seat at quarter-time for your chance to win one of four signed Chris Judd bobbleheads.
Visit the Ticketmaster website for tickets.
