Carlton's season, which could easily have been meaningless, is now very much alive after a fifth consecutive win under interim coach Josh Fraser. The Blues defeated the GWS Giants 12.16 (88) to 9.11 (65) at Engie Stadium on Saturday, despite squandering numerous chances and kicking just one goal from 18 inside 50s in the first quarter.
Key Moments in the Match
Late in the third quarter, with the Blues' four-goal lead whittled down to a draw, four low, 25-metre angle-changing kicks led to Sam Walsh's after-the-siren goal. Two months ago, those kicks would have been long bombs, and Walsh would have missed the set shot. In the final term, Matt Cottrell's second goal showcased Carlton's newfound fluency and cohesion, with Billy Wilson, Talor Byrne, and others calmly transitioning the ball from one end to the other, bypassing a lax Giants defence.
What Has Changed Under Fraser?
Under former coach Michael Voss, Carlton often brought pressure and energy but would be shoved aside when the opposition pushed back. Under Fraser, the Blues have been able to take the sting out of the game for three or four minutes when threatened, whereas earlier in the season they would lose their bearings. According to Fraser, the team has reached an emotional pitch they weren't able to under Voss. “A weight has been lifted,” he said, though he continues to talk like a stand-in coach, focusing on building depth and handing over an improved team.
Player Performances
Sam Walsh is fitter, Patrick Cripps is freer, and younger players have gained experience. George Hewett and Blake Acres are no longer in the reserves. The Blues still prioritise contest and defence under Fraser, but with better execution.
Coaching Dilemma for Carlton
Carlton faces an unusually difficult decision. Fraser has won five from five matches as interim coach, yet he insists he doesn't want to be a senior coach. The club has long sought an outsider to save them—Pagan, Judd, Malthouse, Voss—but Fraser doesn't look or sound like a saviour. He isn't selling anything, angling for anything, or promising anything, but his team keeps winning. As one observer noted, “He's no saviour, but he's a hell of a locum.”
