Blues Beginning to Blossom

Carlton’s hard fought win over Sydney at the SCG on Friday night announced their graduation from finalists making up the numbers to ‘serious contenders’.

So far this season the Blues have only lost to heavy weights Collingwood, but even that result had positives for Blues’ supporters. Carlton’s 28 point loss to the Pies is the lowest margin Collingwood has won by this season. The Blues can be pleased with their efforts considering the Pies have also defeated top four calibre teams in Essendon and the Bulldogs. No longer do the Blues rely solely on captain Chris Judd; although he is playing brilliantly, the Brownlow medallist now has much needed support from the growth and improvement of Carlton’s many high draft picks.

Judd’s midfield partner in crime Marc Murphy has been one of the improvers. Murphy is currently ranked 4^th in disposals, alongside captain Judd who is 5^th. More impressively is the contested possession count which Judd leads accompanied by Murphy who sits 5^th. Bryce Gibbs and Robert Warnock are others who have significantly lifted their output. Gibbs is ranked 2^nd in the competition for marks whilst Warnock has the 5^th most hitouts in the competition, establishing himself as one of the premier ruckman in the game. On top of their improved midfield output, the Blues have also found several goal kickers who are leading the competition. Jeff Garlett and Andrew Walker sit 4^th and 6^th respectively in the Coleman medal, impressive considering Walker was on the trade table only seven months ago. These two combined with Eddie Betts pose headaches for opposition defences.

Not only have individual players stepped up, but the team has collectively improved across several categories. Statistically they are one of the top teams in the competition. Coach Brett Ratten was renowned for being a physical, tough player. He has clearly instilled his methodology and toughness into the Blues, which has resulted in their incredible tackling improvement. The Blues are ranked 2^nd in the competition for tackles, arguably their most improved aspect. Offensively they are ranked third in average points scored; although offensive has never been a problem for the Blues pre or post Fevola.

Before the Blues can truly challenge the Pies they must improve their defence. Fullback Michael Jamison looms as the pillar which the Blues will build their defence around. Throw in Paul Bower and young Matthew Watson and the Blues have a group capable of holding down defence for the next five years. At present, Bower is injured and Watson is in his first year. If they can get back Bower and get games into Watson this year, a serious assault on Collingwood can be mounted in the seasons to come.

The signs are finally there for the Blues. Years of toiling at the bottom of the ladder may finally be rewarded in the years to come. Although they are not yet at Collingwood’s standard, they are well on their way to being serious contenders over the coming years.