Round 10 Preview

Melbourne v Carlton

Melbourne and Carlton kick off round 10 at the MCG, with both teams looking to recover from losses last week.

The Demons struggled without a number of top-line players last week against St. Kilda. They managed to keep in touch for the majority of the game – including drawing level during the third term – but the Saints were able to kick away to a 20 point win.

The Blues were able to challenge ladder-leaders Geelong in what was an enthralling clash last Friday night.

After Carlton maintained a comfortable lead for the majority of the first half, the Cats were able to steal the lead during the third term and – bar a short period during the last term – managed to hold onto it for a two-point win.

Melbourne continue to struggle with injuries – losing Tapscott, Bartram and Davey from last weeks game adds to a long list of big names including Jamar, Scully, Garland, and Grimes.

The Demons did incredibly well last week to be competitive through the midfield – Stef Martin can take much of the credit with an admirable performance in the ruck. Debutant Michael Evans was also impressive with 27 touches.

Carlton would have been disappointed it couldn’t hold onto the lead they snatched during the last term.

Geelong has managed to win a number of tight ones this year and this was another.

Certainly, though, Carlton can take a number of positives from the game, and have proved themselves certain top 4 contenders.

Marc Murphy and Bryce Gibbs were fantastic – and these two on fire complementing Chris Judd makes the Carlton midfield look uber-impressive.

Changes

Melbourne:

IN: Morton, Bennell, Nicholson

OUT: Bartram (hip), Davey (hip), Tapscott (hamstring)

NEW: Nicholson (University Blues)

Carlton:

IN: Hampson

OUT: Warnock (concussion)

Significant outs for Melbourne with the loss of the experienced Davey and the young but tough Tapscott.

Additionally, Bartram would almost certainly have had the tagging role on Judd – without a recognised tagger, the Demons will struggle to contain the Carlton big three of Judd, Murphy and Gibbs.

Carlton’s loss of Warnock is significant, however made less so by the fact Jamar remains sidelined for the Demons.

Expected to be wet on Friday night, which should help the Demons who – with the missing talent – will likely concentrate on tackling and pressure to try to turn the match into a slugfest.

However, Carlton proved up in Sydney earlier in the year that they can match anyone in the wet. Expect the extra class of Carlton to shine through.

Carlton by 24

Check out HERE for previews of the seven other matches this round.