Carlton secured a 10.14 (74) to 7.13 (55) victory over Melbourne in their AFL wildcard match at the MCG, extending their remarkable season resurgence into an elimination final against Geelong. The win was watched by 91,733 fans and sets up a Friday night clash with the sixth-placed Cats.
Blues' Fairytale Run Continues
Under coach Josh Fraser, the Blues have rebounded from a 1-8 start to the season, a run that cost Michael Voss his job. They finished the regular season in 10th place, qualified for the wildcard round, and now have reached the elimination final.
Carlton overcame an early 21-point deficit to outgun Melbourne, who had finished seventh in the regular season. The Blues' next opponent is Geelong at the MCG on Friday, while Adelaide will host the Western Bulldogs in Saturday's elimination final.
Key Performances Drive Victory
Newly crowned Rising Star Jagga Smith was instrumental, recording 29 disposals and nine clearances, and kicking two last-quarter goals. He was well supported by Sam Walsh, who had 39 disposals and six clearances. Patrick Cripps managed 22 disposals despite a left knee issue and close attention from Jack Steele, who had 23 disposals.
Ben Ainsworth contributed three goals and 21 disposals, while Harry McKay added two goals. In defence, Jacob Weitering was pivotal, with support from Harry Dean and Nick Haynes.
Melbourne's Struggles and Farewells
Melbourne captain Max Gawn started strongly with 27 hitouts and 31 disposals but was contained by Marc Pittonet. Kysaiah Pickett had plenty of the ball but struggled with his finishing. The Demons were without defender Jake Lever (toe) and forwards Jacob van Rooyen (suspension) and Matt Jefferson (knee).
Melbourne led by 21 points late in the first quarter, but McKay steadied Carlton before quarter-time, sparking a run of five straight goals that ended with Brodie Kemp putting the Blues in front for the first time. Melbourne led by a point at half-time and had 17 inside-50s to Carlton's nine in the third quarter, but poor kicking cost them. Carlton took a four-point lead into the final change and never looked like losing.
The Demons, who have not won a final since their 2021 premiership, losing five at the MCG, also said farewell to retiring players Tom McDonald and Jake Melksham.
