This time last year, in the corresponding game against Melbourne, Carlton was determined to celebrate Chris Judd’s farewell game with a win – and they did just that.

In an upset, Carlton walked away 23-point winners at the MCG in the Round 21 clash last year.

The Blues will no doubt be striving to recplicate the same result when they take on the Dees this Sunday, as the Club says thanks and farewell to retiring veterans Andrew Walker and Michael Jamison.

Carlton’s recent record against Melbourne has been favourable, with the Blues winning eight out of their last 10 encounters, but with Melbourne still in finals contention they’ll be extra incentive for those in red and blue.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s game, Carlton coach Brendon Bolton is well aware his team will face a “determined” Melbourne outfit.

“Melbourne have been in really good form and they’ve still got finals hopes so they’re going to be really determined,” Bolton said.

“It’s more about making sure we go out and give the effort for four quarters…we’re looking to make sure we improve every game, so we’ve got as much to play for as they have.” 

Carlton’s ruckmen Matthew Kruezer and Andrew Phillips will play vital roles on Sunday, trying to restrain the impact Melbourne’s big man Max Gawn. 

Gawn is currently ranked No. 1 in the AFL for hitouts, averaging just over 42 per game; North’s Todd Goldstein is second, averaging 38 hitouts.

Although the last time these sides met Gawn won the hitout count, Kreuzer gathered 17 disposals and kicked three goals to be named best on ground and collect the umpire’s three Brownlow votes.

Addressing the media during the week, Melbourne coach Paul Roos emphasised he has been happy with his side’s performances over the last few weeks, but noted they’re still a young side who could “hit a wall”.

“The last time we played Carlton we got beaten, so that’s got to be our focus going into this weekend,” Roos said.

“Clearly we’re playing some good footy at the moment, we’ve won three games in a row, but as a coaching group we’re always aware of a young group.

“If they hit the wall, which we’re hoping they don’t, there’s no signs at the moment which is great – they’re the main things we’re concerned about getting prepared for the game on the weekend.”

The Blues have recalled Liam Sumner, Andrejs Everitt and Nick Graham to its 25-man squad, while for Melbourne they’ve also added three possible inclusions with Viv Michie, Alex Neal-Bullen and Sam Weideman named in the extended team.