CARLTON can expect to see its second and third-year players lead the way in 2019. 

Assistant coach David Teague was impressed by the young Blues in Thursday’s practice match against the Hawks: in particular, their willingness to take the game on at every stage.

With the emerging players leading from the front, the Blues stretched their more-mature opponents, with a number of free-flowing plays building from the backline, while there was a noticeable intensity and ferocity around every contest.

“There were some exciting times where even if we turned it over, the guys went for it a bit more,” Teague said.

“We’ve got to get that balance right with our skill execution and decision-making, but it was exciting that the guys are backing themselves to take the game.

“We’ve got a young list – we’ve got some good older guys, but those younger guys are the ones that will take us forward.

“Not necessarily the first-year players, but that third and fourth-year group.”

While David Cuningham, Charlie Curnow and Jacob Weitering all played with great intent and impressed, it was the performance of Sam Petrevski-Seton which was most notable of that group.

Playing mainly in the midfield, the 21-year old demonstrated great composure under pressure and was extremely measured each time he had the ball in hand.

Teague spoke highly of the talented midfielder, believing that the hard work he has put in through the pre-season has definitely reaped reward.

“He’s another one that played quite well and he played his role,” he said.

“He came back in really good nick which has allowed him to train at a higher intensity.

“Today, I think we saw glimpses of it and hopefully he continues to grow. When you allow yourself and prepare yourself, it gives you the best chance to perform.”

The game also gave the over 5,000-strong crowd their first glimpse of No.1 draft pick, Sam Walsh.

It didn’t take long for the youngster to find his feet, slotting into the midfield with ease and finding plenty of the ball.

While Walsh’s maturity and class around the contest may have caught his opposition off-guard, it came as no surprise to his teammates or coaching staff who have been blown away by his preparation throughout the pre-season.

WATCH all the highlights from yesterday's practice match against Hawthorn.

“The intensity he trains at allows him to play like that,” he said.

“He competes, he works hard and if you do that and bring a bit of talent, you’re going to go a fair way I think. 

“I’ve never seen a first-year player train at that intensity. Whether that turns into form, generally the guys who train well are the ones that can follow it up. He’s prepared himself really well.”

Teague also dismissed any concerns surrounding Marc Murphy, who did not participate in the final quarter of the practice match after receiving a slight knock to the knee.

Teague said the veteran had always been scheduled to play three quarters.

“He was always scheduled to play three quarters, and I think it was right on three-quarter-time,” he said.

“There was no risk taken, I don’t think it will be anything major.”