THE CARLTON Reserves produced a commanding performance against Collingwood, running out 31-point winners at IKON Park in Round 4.
Highlighted by a resounding +81 disposal differential and +36 advantage in tackles, the Blues led from the outset and weren’t troubled after a dominant first half in the 11.19 (85) to 7.12 (54) win.
The Blues welcomed back Cooper Lord from illness and Matt Duffy from concussion, and both made an immediate impact in a tightly contested opening.
Much of the first quarter was played between the arcs, with neither side able to gain full control in a scrappy contest. A promising chain involving Jack Ison and Lachie Fogarty ended with George Hewett, who couldn’t quite finish, but Fogarty soon broke through with the first goal of the game after earning a 50-metre penalty.
From there, Carlton began to build, and the second quarter proved decisive. Their forward pressure was immense, led by Flynn Young, who capitalised with a forward-50 intercept and goal before setting up Hudson O’Keeffe soon after.
Young continued his strong start to the season, finishing with two goals and 21 disposals, constantly providing a target inside 50.
Carlton’s dominance continued as Jordan Boyd set up another scoring opportunity, allowing Riley to hit the scoreboard, while Darcy Tucker added to the growing margin. Jack Ison capped off the half with a clever snap, finishing the game with 2 goals and 17 disposals to go with his strong defensive efforts.
Lucas Camporeale showed great courage late in the half with a spoil deep in defence,
while brother Ben shone through the midfield, finishing with 27 disposals. Carlton’s appetite for the contest in the first two quarters was clear, keeping the Pies goalless at the main break.
Collingwood came out with intent in the second half, kicking the opening goal, but Ashton Moir responded with a smart mark and goal. Moir added a second for the quarter after a burst through the middle from the lively Adam Saad, helping Carlton steady whenever the Pies threatened.
Collingwood managed to string together a few late goals to reduce the margin heading into the final term, but Hewett got involved to set up Matthew Cottrell who produced his first goal since his return to football.
Just as the Pies looked to respond again, Carlton’s control across the ground - driven by their midfield depth, relentless pressure, and overall statistical dominance - ensured the result was never seriously in doubt.
In the ruck, Flynn Riley stood up in place of late exclusion Liam Reidy, finishing with 13 disposals and an impressive 33 hitouts, giving Carlton first use throughout the night.
Cooper Lord was particularly influential in his return, gathering 31 disposals and 11 tackles. Around the ground, Blake Acres was tireless on the wing with 31 disposals, while George Hewett was strong in the contest, collecting 29 disposals and helping drive the Blues forward.
It was a complete team performance from Carlton, with key contributors across every line combining to secure an impressive 31-point victory over a fierce rival.
CARLTON RESERVES 1.6 7.8 10.13 11.19 (85)
COLLINGWOOD VFL 0.4 0.6 5.7 7.12 (54)
GOALS
Carlton: Ison 2, Moir 2, Young 2, Cottrell, Fogarty, O’Keeffe, Riley, Tucker
BESTS
Carlton: Acres, Saad, Young, Lord, Hewett, Charleson
Bailey Walsh is a student at La Trobe University, undergoing his Bachelor of Media and Communications (Journalism and Marketing). He is currently undertaking an internship at the Carlton Football Club as part of its partnership with La Trobe University.
