Twenty-two players arrived at Etihad Stadium for Carlton’s clash with St Kilda – and it was 22 players who contributed to the cohesive display that led to an impressive 32-point win over the Saints.
It was a unified Blues outfit that left the ground after the win and coach Mick Malthouse was quick to congratulate ‘all’ players on their performance.
“It wasn’t one man … when you look at Rowe’s work, you look at Armfield … Thomas did a fantastic job in that forward line holding that ball in there. Yarran, Docherty … Everitt,” Malthouse said.
“There’s three players we brought into the club, all had an impact.”
Malthouse felt that the win came down to more players in the Carlton team playing their role and contributing, in comparison with St Kilda.
“We probably had more winners over the ground, that’s generally how you win games of footy anyway,” he said.
Troy Menzel played what could be considered his best game for Carlton, showing talent and goal sense in a three goal, 14 disposal effort, while Chris Yarran played his best game for the year, kicking a career-best four goals in a 22 possession performance.
Robbie Warnock dominated the ruck battle with former Lion, Billy Longer, winning 40 hitouts to Longer’s 26. Warnock’s dominance set the tone in the midfield and it was obvious that the free-flowing, eloquent football the Blues displayed in their two previous wins was back.
Docherty improved on what was a solid first game for the club, collecting 20 disposals and kicking two goals. It is only two games into his Carlton career but it seems the Blues may have found the perfect man to play both midfield and defensive roles.
Everitt continued his consistent start to the season with 18 disposals and eight marks, as the Blues continued to reap the rewards from their off-season acquisitions.
MALTHOUSE POST-MATCH PRESS CONFERENCE
Meanwhile it seems that Bryce Gibbs, Kade Simpson and captain Marc Murphy are back to their best heading into the most important part of the season – they were the top three possession winners on the ground and showed great leadership.
Malthouse indicated that the best aspect of Gibbs’ performance was his disposal efficiency.
“Bryce certainly had an impact … he’s so clean with the football. His disposal rating was 79 percent, so it’s a fair reward,” Malthouse said.
The Blues now have a 12-day break ahead of their Round 10 clash with the Adelaide Crows at the MCG.
