Key posts
QT: Blues hold the ascendancy
There’s the siren for quarter-time. It’s Carlton who’ve thrown the gauntlet down, but early inaccuracy could hurt them in the end.
Carlton 2.6 (18) lead North Melbourne 1.3 (9)
Behinds in full supply
Both sides have been inaccurate. There’s been a string of behinds since Fanastia’s goal after 18 minutes. But here’s the rub – the conditions are brilliant here at the MCG. You’d effort some more accurate kicking in front of the sticks. The hot talking point is ANOTHER injury for Carlton – Jacob Weitering’s ankle concern.
Goal: Blues have their second
Orazio Fantasia is on the board with a goal.
Injury for a star Blue
Carlton have suffered a potentially season-changing injury blow with gun defender Jacob Weitering injuring his ankle against North Melbourne. Weitering landed awkwardly trying to hurdle Cam Zurhaar, his left foot appearing to land on the Kangaroos forward. Weitering was in immediate distress, unable to get up. He was taken off with the aid of the trainer, and unable to put any weight on his left foot. Weitering is close to the Blues’ most irreplaceable player. Should he be subbed out of the game, it will force coach Michael Voss to reshuffle the magnets. Mitch McGovern may have to be moved into defence though he has started this game in lively fashion with a goal.
Jacob Weitering on the turf.Credit: Getty Images
A slow-paced start
By Andrew Wu
Subdued start here at the MCG. The Blues have wasted some golden opportunities in front of goal but have the early ascendancy, even if the margin is just two points. They are controlling the play but unable to make the most of their chances. North have had difficulty getting the ball into their forward half.
Goal: Kangas make it one goal each
Cameron Zurhaar at the other end delivers for the Roos.
Goal: McGovern for Carlton
But, gee whiz, it was almost a mix-up. Mitch McGovern took the mark about 20 metres from goal .… but decided to play on! Somehow he recovered, picked up the ball and snapped truly.
Today’s banners
The Carlton run-through.Credit: Getty Images
The Kangas line-up.Credit: Getty Images
Early drama for Darling
Jack Darling has gone off the ground, seemingly injured by an opponent’s boot. The radio commentators who saw the incident are describing a “huge gash” on the Kangaroo’s leg.
Up and going at the ’G
The iconic Melbourne venue is awash in winter sunlight. A great day for footy.
