"I have spoken about the unacceptable performances against Port Adelaide, it was a very un-Carlton like performance. We rightfully copped our whack from the media and even our own supporters were into us.
"In the two games since we have certainly shown some heart and could have won both games. But we are not happy with honorable losses."
Kernahan said some had called for the introduction of new players but added many had been unavailable due to injury.
"We have a few young players in tonight and are starting to get some more players back from injury. Waite and Murphy should be back in a few weeks and Henderson in the next week or two.
"There are ten games left in the season, that's a lot of footy to be played. Some may be writing us off but with players resuming and getting back into form we can certainly play a role in 2012.
"However our focus now is firmly on tonight," said Kernahan.
Kernahan then spoke about the contribution David Parkin had made to both clubs in his long and distinguished career in football.
"One player will tonight win the David Parkin Medal to be selected and presented by David, a Life Member of both clubs. A 211 game premiership player at Hawthorn who coached them to a flag in 1978, David coached Carlton in a record 355 games and three premierships. He is also our coach of the Team of the Century.
"He is a true legend of our game, a mentor for many."
Kernahan also congratulated Chris Judd on reaching his 100 game milestone for Carlton joking that son Oscar will now be eligible to join Carlton under the Father Son rule in 17 years time.
