ASSISTANT coach Dale Amos has backed his defensive leaders to pick up from where they left off in Round 1.

While there will be 12 weeks between games by the time Round 2 rolls around, Amos believed Sam Docherty and Jacob Weitering were well-placed to continue after a strong start.

Alongside Patrick Cripps and Jack Martin, the defensive duo were two of Carlton’s best in the season opener.

Weitering rendered Tom Lynch goalless, while Docherty’s first game in over two years saw him collect 26 disposals in an accomplished performance.

Amos said it was a luxury to have the co-captain at his defensive disposal once again.

“He’s a real leader and sees the game so well,” Amos told Carlton Media.

“We’ve tried not to burden him too much in terms of trying to do everything, remembering he hasn’t played for two years and his focus is squarely on playing.

“He naturally lead, naturally gives direction and is naturally really composing for us as a defender. I think he and [Kade Simpson] are really looking forward to playing some footy together again.”

Meanwhile, Amos is backing Weitering - who was elevated into the leadership group this year - to continue with his fine form to start the season.

Citing his showings on the track as a strong indication, Amos said the 22-year-old had done everything possible to perform when games return.

“His form has carried. He prepared really well in the break and he’s come back and has done exactly what he was doing then,” he said.

“His match play in particular has emulated exactly what he did in Round 1.”