CARLTON will run out on Marvel Stadium with a newfound confidence when it takes on the Bulldogs for a second time in 2019.

With their 15-point win over the Lions in Round 12 delivering a taste of victory, the Blues will be desperate to take the chance of recording consecutive wins. 

The Blues got the better of the Bulldogs in Round 5, but with the visitors’ season on the line after three consecutive losses, there’s a lot on the line tonight.

Blues supporters will be hoping recent history repeats after the Easter Sunday triumph eight weeks ago.

Details: Marvel Stadium, Saturday 15 June, 7:25pm (AEST)
Broadcast: Click here for broadcast guide and here for all game day info.

THE GAME IN FOCUS:

Carlton will need to harness the third-quarter magic of last week’s clash for all four quarters if they are to down the dangerous Dogs.

With interim coach David Teague encouraging his Blues to play with more freedom, Carlton’s forward line aggression will be crucial once again. 

The Bulldogs will be looking to Saturday’s match to redeem three prior defeats, having shown positive signs despite losses to West Coast, North Melbourne and Geelong in recent weeks.

With 11 players from the 2016 premiership named, the Dogs are not to be underestimated: their intense midfield pressure will have the Blues wary. 

THE LAST TIME THEY MET:

Carlton notched its first win of 2019 last time these two sides faced off in Round 5 at Marvel Stadium.

The Blues dominated from the first bounce, with their ascendency through the midfield leaving them with 16 more clearances than the Bulldogs.

Carlton took a 12-point lead into quarter time and it only grew from there, finishing 44 points the better side at the final time as the Blues recorded their biggest score of the year.

The Blues’ first win of the season coincided with a breakout game for young forward Harry McKay, who finished the day with four majors to his name.

Skipper Patrick Cripps and Sam Petrevski-Seton worked tirelessly through the midfield, collecting 37 and 35 disposals respectively.

BLUE FOCUS:

Dale Thomas will be gunning to mark his 250th AFL game in the best possible manner tonight. 

The veteran has grown to become an integral component of the Blues’ back six in recent seasons, averaging over 21 disposals since the beginning of last year. 

Offering a wealth of knowledge and energy to a developing Carlton side, the Blues will be desperate to mark the ‘Daisy’s’ 250th game with a win.

GET EXCITED ABOUT:

When the Blues run out on Marvel Stadium on Saturday night, there will be more to play for than just the four points.

In its fourth annual AFL Carlton Respects game, the Blues will wear orange socks as it champions gender equality for the prevention of violence against women.

Supporters are encouraged to add a touch of orange to the customary Navy Blue when heading to the game in a show of solidarity.

BLUE VIEW:

Carlton supporters had a taste of victory last Saturday, but they’re not satisfied – and neither are the players.

But with their own season on the line, Carlton can’t afford to sleep on the Bulldogs.