Carlton's comeback win over Melbourne shows a new maturity under Josh Fraser
Carlton coach Josh Fraser has praised his side's composure after the Blues came from 24 points down to defeat Melbourne by 19 points in their AFL wildcard final at the MCG on Saturday night, in front of more than 91,000 fans.
The higher-ranked Demons kicked the first four goals of the match, but Carlton steadied and finished strongly to secure a 19-point victory, extending their remarkable late-season surge to 13 wins from their past 16 games.
How did Carlton turn the match around?
Fraser said the Blues were not rattled by the early deficit, despite the pressure of a knockout final on home soil. The coach noted that his players had faced a similar situation a week earlier against minor premiers Fremantle, and that experience helped them stay calm.
“It didn't feel like we got spooked. It was another sign of the growth in this group, where momentum's against you. Stay connected, trust the system,” Fraser said post-match.
The key adjustment came after quarter-time, when Carlton slowed the game down with uncontested marks and shifted Melbourne's defence from side to side. This approach was partly designed to limit the influence of Melbourne's 209cm ruckman Max Gawn, a nine-time All-Australian who dominates in the air.
Who stood up for the Blues?
Midfielders Sam Walsh (39 disposals) and Jagga Smith (29 disposals, two goals) were influential, while defenders Jacob Weitering, Nick Haynes and Harry Dean held firm under pressure. Ben Ainsworth kicked a game-high three goals up forward.
Fraser highlighted the even spread of contributors across the ground, noting that the team no longer relies on captain Patrick Cripps to carry the load alone.
“Historically there's been certain players who have felt like they've had to do everything, and the intent's fine, but it's misguided. You've just got to be so reliable in your role and trust the guy next to you to get his job done,” he said.
What does this mean for Carlton's finals campaign?
The Blues now face Geelong on Friday night in the next round of the finals series. Fraser said he encouraged his players to briefly enjoy the win before turning their attention to the Cats.
“The rooms felt incredible with our family and friends, and so many people connected to the club. Incredible support from the crowd,” Fraser said.
“They kept turning up and giving us great energy. But I just said to the players, they should understand what performances like this do to so many people connected to the club.”
Who is Oliver Hollands and why was his performance significant?
Wingman Oliver Hollands, who has been in and out of the senior team this season, kicked a goal and collected 18 disposals in a hard-running duel with Melbourne's Ed Langdon. Fraser praised Hollands for his attitude after being dropped to the VFL earlier in the year.
“Maybe the disappointment of not being in the team and going back to VFL, turns up with the right mindset and attitude and gets to work on his game,” Fraser said.
Carlton's victory sets up a compelling clash with Geelong, with the winner advancing closer to the grand final.