On Saturday, the Bombers had an exhilarating 34-point win over the Eagles of West Coast. With this win, they now have a 6-7 season record. The match, held at Optus Stadium, showcased Carlton’s strong start and highlighted West Coast’s struggles, as they faced significant injury setbacks during the game.
To begin the game, the Blues set the tone with 10 of the first 11 goals. This crucial early advantage stamped their authority on the match and by planting that seed of doubt in the opposition, they never relinquished control. George Hewett was arguably the most important player to include Carlton in your AFL tips. He racked up 35 disposals and seven clearances, providing a mammoth midfield presence.
Lachie Fogarty and Mitch McGovern were crucial in setting up the win, both kicking three goals apiece. It was their offensive output that proved essential in creating a big enough lead that West Coast could not climb back from. By comparison, West Coast flailed under inefficiency. Eleven players had 2 possessions or less, which speaks volumes about their lack of fluidity and game plan execution on the field.
West Coast’s coach, Andrew McQualter, did not mince words when discussing his team’s performance. He termed their first-quarter showing “pathetic.” That’s a great indication of the improvement that is necessary as they try to put it together in the next few games. Harley Reid was a standout for West Coast, accumulating 28 touches. He led the field with five clearances, showing the way even when his team was faltering.
When it comes to injuries, both teams were hit hard with unfortunate predicaments that hurt their starting lineup. Carlton’s Hudson O’Keeffe went down with a hamstring injury in the second half, contributing to the team’s ever-growing list of players who have gone down. Nic Newman, Jagga Smith and Brodie Kemp are all unavailable for the remainder of 2023. On the other hand, Harry McKay will miss his second game running with a knee issue. To compound matters, Sam Walsh will be out for at least five to six weeks with a foot injury.
On the West Coast side, Oscar Allen did poorly after he had a leg injury in the middle of the match. He was spotted afterwards favouring his heavily strapped left knee. His absence from future games will only make it that much more difficult for West Coast to get their groove back. Charlie Curnow felt some flare calf tightness through the game but was otherwise able to talk of returning.
As this unique season plays out, each team will need to make important judgments about their focus and line-up. Carlton will aim to build on this victory and solidify their position in the league, while West Coast must address their performance issues and injury crises to avoid further declines in their standings.
