AFTER a stint on the sidelines, Cooper Lord made a welcome return in Round 4 VFL action, playing his part in a win that kickstarted the Carlton Reserves’ 2026 season.

Lord was one of the Blues’ standout contributors against the Pies on Friday night, finishing with 35 disposals and 10 tackles in the 31-point win.

(PHOTO CREDIT: Tom McLachlan)

It was Lord’s first game in over a month, having been sidelined since the Blues’ Round 1 game against Richmond due to illness.

Reflecting on his own performance, Lord said it took him some time to find his rhythm, but he was pleased with how the midfield group functioned as a whole.

“It was awesome to be back out there: I just loved getting out there with the boys,” Lord said.

“After taking a bit of time, you certainly appreciate being healthy again, so it was great to be out there.

“I was a little bit slow getting into the game, but I felt like I did a few alright things late. It was just nice to be running around out there: I thought all the boys really cracked in well, it was a good team performance.”

The victory has provided a confidence boost, with Lord believing consistent game time will help him and the group continue to build form.

He also highlighted the benefit of lining up alongside experienced AFL-listed players, whose presence helped him quickly settle back into the pace of the game.

“The more you play, it builds confidence and allows you to bring out your strengths.

“Definitely having the likes of George [Hewett] and Blake [Acres] out there… their leadership was really good. It certainly helps me getting back into the swing of things pretty swiftly.”

Looking at the bigger picture, Lord said the win was an encouraging start for the Reserves, particularly in the way the side handled key moments throughout the match after two narrow losses to start the season.

“It was pretty hot early, and I think we were able to find moments of composure and take the game on which was very exciting. Late in the game, we were still able to take the game forward and try and score, which was really promising.”

With momentum now on their side, the VFL Blues will look to build on this performance heading into their next clash with Tasmania on Saturday night.

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.