Carlton took on the Bombers in this final round game in a replica of 1994. Our loss to them in 1994 was poorly timed, and set up our straight sets losses in the finals. Our win in this game, off the back of a huge Round 21 win, put us on the finals run with some form and some enjoyment. There is no doubt that the Bombers were something of a bogey team in this era, and to be able to crunch the former ‘Baby Bombers’ despite them still sitting in the Top 4 was a joy to behold.

The win came through a number of places – Craig Bradley off the wing, Ang Christou off half back, Stephen Silvagni on a variety of opponents and Brett Ratten in the centre. But perhaps most important of all, was again the Duke, Earl Spalding. The Duke was again a dominant figure in this game, kicking 3 goals and earning 14 stats at half forward, providing the focal point through which many of our smaller forwards – Matt Clape, Greg Williams and Dean Rice to work through.

Greg Williams clashed verbally with field umpire Darren Goldspink in the third quarter and was reported and later suspended for a match (which was the first final against Brisbane) for abusive language to a field umpire, Diesel didn't like the high tackle and no free kick.

Carlton 4.5 (29) 9.6 (60) 12.8 (80) 16.12 (108)
Essendon 3.6 (24) 5.9 (39) 6.10 (46) 9.13 (67)

Venue: MCG

Date: Saturday September 2, 1995

Umpires: B.Allen, A.Coates & H.Kennedy
 
Crowd: 87,894

Goalkickers: E.Spalding 3, B.Pearce 3, S.Kernahan 2, G.Williams 2, D.Rice 2, B.Ratten 1, T.Lynn 1, M.Clape 1, S.Camporeale 1

Best: A.Koutoufides, C.Bradley, S.Kernahan, A.Christou, T.Bond, B.Ratten, J.Madden

Reports: G.Williams by umpire D.Goldspink for abusive language - 1 week suspension

Injuries: Nil

Brownlow votes:
3 - Craig Bradley (CARL)
2 - Ang Christou (CARL)
1 - Earl Spalding (CARL)

Article with thanks to Blueseum.org