Q1 breakdown: 

The game started strong with a brilliant tackle from Jack Martin, resulting in a goal within the first minute. Harry McKay provided a good marking option down the line while Jacob Weitering was a reliable pillar in defensive 50. The Giants moved the ball freely on the outside, but Carlton’s work in the clinches and a strong defence held up well. Some strong forward pressure from Eddie Betts and a clever snap from Paddy Dow saw Carlton take the lead, before Sam Walsh continued his recent goalkicking form. A strong contested mark from Harry McKay resulted in a goal, with Carlton’s efficiency in attack countered by GWS missing some opportunities in front of goal.

Q2 breakdown: 

The second term started in a familiar fashion, with McKay taking a big contested mark in the forward 50: however, he was unable to convert truly. It was a contrast of styles at Metricon Stadium, with Carlton dominating in the contest (+20 contested possessions) while GWS worked the ball around the ground (+50 uncontested possessions). The intercept work of Liam Jones and a vibrant Tom Williamson kept the ball moving forward, while Ed Curnow was as combative and dogged as ever. The Blues had the territory at the end of the quarter, but both teams were held goalless in the second term.

Q3 breakdown: 

The skipper Patrick Cripps started the term strong, laying a forceful tackle and setting up a scoring opportunity. Marc Pittonet had the better of the hitouts against the milestone man Shane Mumford, while Sam Docherty read the ball well across half back. The pressure from the Blues was a standout, with Jack Newnes and Cameron Polson laying crucial run-down tackles. Carlton was able to hold the ball in their forward half with 17 inside 50s, but it took until the final minute of the term - courtesy of Marc Murphy’s clever effort - for the Blues to hit the scoreboard in a meaningful way. 

Q4 breakdown: