Carlton’s one-point victory over an in-form Greater Western Sydney is set to hold the Blues in good stead for its next challenge, according to youngster David Cuningham.
The side reigned supreme to bag the four points for the fourth time this season in an upset win over the Giants at Etihad Stadium at the weekend.
With Carlton preparing to travel north to face the Gold Coast Suns on Saturday, Cuningham hoped the Blues could “keep the ball rolling” with the team’s recent success set to bolster the side.
“We (Blues) sit at four and seven at the moment. The win on the weekend was certainly helpful to boost some confidence (into the group),” Cuningham told 3AW on Tuesday.
“The Suns are a hard-running team like the Giants, so we’ll go in with a similar game plan and hopefully add to our tally this year.”
Cuningham became Carlton’s third 2017 NAB AFL Rising Star nominee after he impressed with 19 disposals (10 contested possessions), two goals and five goal assists during the Round 12 win.
While the speedy midfielder used his pace to influence the contest, he said he still had much to learn in the early stages of his career.
“I think it’s (speed) probably one of my strengths but as of yet, I don’t think I’ve quite filled that potential,” Cuningham said.
“I think a lot of the Giants players really broke the lines, (including) Dylan Shiel and Josh Kelly. That’s probably something I’m trying to emulate this year and in the future.”
With six senior games under his belt, the 20-year-old is one of many young Blues continuing to develop and find their feet within the senior squad.
And with each week serving as a new learning opportunity, the former No.23 draft pick said the growth of the Blues’ younger troops was beginning to take effect.
“It’s pretty exciting to have a lot of youth in the team at the moment,” Cuningham said.
“We’re slowly getting that performance density we’re after from our younger brigade.”
Carlton will return to the action to face Gold Coast in an away clash at Metricon Stadium on Saturday 17 June from 7:25pm.
