Coach Brett Ratten emphasizes that winning the all-star midfield battle is crucial for Carlton to upset Collingwood on Saturday.
Following last week’s surprising loss to the Western Bulldogs, the Blues are eager to bounce back. With West Coast just two points behind and eyeing fourth position, Ratten acknowledged the importance of this match.
He challenged the Blues’ midfield trio—Chris Judd, Marc Murphy, and Bryce Gibbs—to rise to the challenge against their Collingwood adversaries.
“The match will hinge on who secures possession of the ball first and who applies effective tackles to reclaim it,” Ratten stated during a Friday press conference at Visy Park.
“If we allow Dane Swan, Scott Pendlebury, and Dale Thomas to kick freely while they are pressuring Judd, Gibbs, and Murphy, that could determine the outcome of the game.”
“We are looking for more boldness, even if it leads to a few mistakes.”
“Against the Bulldogs, we played far too conservatively, avoiding risks.”
Ratten expressed confidence that Wayde Twomey, a surprise inclusion for his debut in front of a crowd of 90,000, will excel on the big stage.
“He consistently performs well in significant games at the WAFL level. Last year, he showcased an outstanding performance in the grand final.”
“At 25, he brings experience and remains calm under pressure.”
“Although it’s his first game, I am certain he will contribute positively to our efforts.”
A loss would leave Carlton with a mere one win from their last four matches, but an upset victory could provide a boost to their premiership aspirations as they have only secured a win against one of the top eight teams—Sydney—this year.
“I believe we can secure a win. We are not just here to make up the numbers. Given our recent form at the MCG, we are entering this match fully invested,” Ratten remarked.
“While they are in excellent form, we believe we have a genuine chance.”
Carlton has also introduced another mature-age recruit, Ed Curnow, along with first-round draft pick Matthew Watson for his third AFL appearance.
Although Watson has played as a defender thus far in 2011, Ratten hinted that the key position player might be utilized in an attacking role.
“Watson has experience playing as a forward in junior levels, where he has recorded impressive scoring games,” Ratten noted.
“(Lachie) Henderson and Bret Thornton are also options that can play forward.”
“We may rotate all three in that position at different times.”
“This tactic might just keep Mick Malthouse on his toes.”
In the meantime, veteran Ryan Houlihan, who remains stuck at 199 games, will need to regain his form through the VFL reserves, as the Northern Bullants’ seniors will have a bye this weekend.
“He will reach his 200th game. It may not be this week, but it’s approaching quickly,” Ratten explained.
“After four games, we felt he needed to inject a bit more pace into his game.”
by Terence Johns
