IF YOU believe Matthew Lappin, Carlton’s epic victory over Essendon on Saturday was largely down to star full-forward Brendan Fevola's new haircut.

Fevola donned a shorter style for the rivalry round clash, bagging eight goals despite a shaky start in front of goal.

"He came to the game with me today and he asked me what I thought of the new hair cut," Lappin said.

"I said I preferred the curls but it's obviously worked for him as he's done well today."

Fevola wasn't the only one in goal-scoring form at the MCG. Lappin himself notched up three, his goals either side of half-time proving instrumental in the Carlton comeback.

"I hadn't kicked a goal for a while, so it was good to kick a few," Lappin said.

"It meant the coach left me on the ground a little bit longer. I was happy to have an impact."

The 31-year-old said the Blues knew what they had to do after a disastrous first half, during which they trailed by as much as 48 points.

"Denis wasn't happy. We weren't manning up our opponents. We weren't taking enough risks when we got the ball. We were just fiddling around with it."

Carlton supporters, present in large numbers at the ‘G, were euphoric at the siren. The players were no less rapt with the result.

"This win is in my top five for sure. We've had some big wins against Essendon over the years but this one is definitely memorable," Lappin said.

"Everyone was over the moon. The rooms were full of supporters. We've had a few tough years so wins like this are even more enjoyable.

New club president Dick Pratt also showed his joy in the rooms afterwards, starting a second rendition of the team song as the players warmed down.

"That was great," Lappin said. "It's great for our supporters and our support staff and the players who have been through hell in the last four or five years."

Despite the memorable comeback, it will be no easy task for the Blues to continue their winning form next week. They face the toughest assignment in footy, taking on the West Coast Eagles in Perth.

"We did alright over there last year, but they out-ran us in the last quarter,” Lappin said. “Hopefully we can go one step better."