SAM Docherty is full of belief that he can lead his team to a finals berth for the first time.

Docherty was once again the general on Friday night, having more marks than anyone on the ground (bar Harry McKay) in the 33-point win.

With Carlton now holding a 6-6 record after 12 games, Docherty was asked on 3AW about his side’s finals ambitions.

Docherty said the mandate was simple.

“We’ve got to keep winning,” Docherty said.

“That’s what we go out there every week to do.

“We’ve got a big few games coming up in the next couple of weeks, so we’re looking forward to recovering and getting ourselves right before attacking next week.”

It doesn’t get much bigger than next week from the perspective of Carlton supporters, with the boyhood Bluebagger fully aware of clashes with Collingwood.

On the back of a difficult game in the Top End, Docherty said the focus would be on recovery and turning their attention towards Collingwood throughout the nine-day break.

“We’ll enjoy the win but lock into the Magpies as soon as we can,” he said.

“We’ll review this, about how we can get better and implement that next week.

“It’s a big game for the football club, it always is against one of the arch rivals. We’re looking forward to it.”