Carlton vice-captain Kade Simpson has praised his side for ‘sticking it out’ following the Blues’ four-point victory over Fremantle on Sunday afternoon.
Despite the game being ‘riddled with errors from both sides’, Simpson said the victory over at Domain Stadium was a reward for the team's effort.
“It was a good performance away from home. We just thought that the team who could stick it out the longest would eventually win the chocolates and in the last quarter, it felt like we did get on top so we were lucky enough to come away with the win,” Simpson said.
“The boys stuck it out and there was definitely a sense of relief (after the game). We enjoyed the win for a few hours after and it certainly made the long flight home a lot easier.”
Speaking with RSN on Tuesday morning, Simpson also acknowledged the on-field efforts of captain Marc Murphy and the leadership through the midfield.
“Murph was superb. It was good to see him play so well in the helmet too!” Simpson said.
“But all the leaders through the midfield, including Cripps, Gibbs, Ed Curnow as well as Murph – all of those guys led the way for much of the day. “
It was the club’s first win under new coach Brendon Bolton and Simpson said it was a victory that the whole club, including the new coaching panel, could enjoy.
“It was good to see him (Bolts) out on the ground after the game. We all gave him a shake of the hand and a big hug,” Simpson said.
“Brendon has been working as hard as anyone through the start of the season, so not only was it a great win for the boys, but for the coaches as well because they’re working as hard as anyone at the Club right now.”
The Blues now switch their focus to Sunday’s game against arch-rival Essendon and Simpson was quick to point out the Club wouldn’t be taking the new-look Bombers lightly.
“We will be preparing for their best footy. They have been playing some good football this season even though yesterday’s result (against Collingwood) obviously wasn’t great for them,” Simpson said.
“But they have beaten Melbourne, who are flying now, and were competitive against Geelong who everyone thinks will be contenders, so they’re going to be alright and we’re going to have to bring our A-game.
“Hopefully we see a big turnout from our fans on Sunday afternoon at the MCG.”
