CARLTON will get its second chance against Sydney when it heads to the SCG for the Round 17 clash this Saturday.
Here is everything you need to know about the Blues’ upcoming opponent.
OVERVIEW:
Ladder position: 14th
Won: 6
Lost: 9
Form: LWWWL
Average points for: 78
Average points against: 82
The Blues will be eager to redeem themselves after last week’s eleventh-hour loss to Melbourne at the MCG, their second loss within a goal in a month.
Carlton once again showed its commitment to the fight-back, closing a 38-point margin to get within striking distance of the four points. But to defeat Sydney on its home deck, they will need to make it a four-quarter performance.
On the other side, Sydney have plenty to play for as its finals hopes hangs in the balance with six wins under its belt in 2019.
The Blues have maintained the upper hand over the Swans despite recent form, and will head into Saturday’s clash with 34 more wins over the opposition.
Both Carlton and Sydney record elite numbers when it comes to locking the ball inside 50, sitting at 17th and 16th respectively in the overall competition for opponent rebound 50s.
With both sides strong in repeat entries, the midfield battle will become all the more important when these two teams go head-to-head.
The Blues have the ascendency when it comes to clearances, which will only hopefully be bolstered by the return of skipper Patrick Cripps.
If the last few weeks are anything to go by, the two more experienced midfielders in Marc Murphy and Sydney’s Luke Parker will provide a match-up to look out for. The two midfielders have been consistent performers for their respective sides and will be integral in controlling the battle in the centre square.
