Carlton Football Club has unveiled its starting lineup of 22 players for the upcoming elimination final clash against Sydney. The team selection sees the return of three notable players, adding depth and experience to the lineup. Carlton Football Club Carlton Football Club
Captain Patrick Cripps, who missed Round 24 due to soreness, is set to lead the Blues into this critical battle. This marks his first appearance in a final since joining IKON Park a decade ago, and his leadership will be pivotal for the team. Carlton Football Club Carlton Football Club
Joining Cripps is his long-time teammate and close friend, Sam Docherty. Docherty, who arrived at Carlton a month before Cripps in 2013, will also make a welcome return to action for the elimination final. Carlton Football Club Carlton Football Club Carlton Football Club
The final inclusion to the team is Marc Pittonet, as confirmed by coach Michael Voss during his Thursday morning press conference. This strategic change will see the Blues revert to a two-ruck model, with star forward Harry McKay teaming up exclusively with fellow Coleman Medallist Charlie Curnow in the forward line. Pittonet’s milestone game, marking his 50th appearance in Carlton colors, adds to the significance of this fixture.
Dynamic forward Jack Martin, who recently celebrated his 50th game in the Navy Blue as a substitute, has been promoted to the starting lineup. Additionally, Caleb March bank, who marked his own 50th game for Carlton as a substitute two weeks ago, has earned a place in the starting side.
Regrettably, Paddy Dow, Corey Durdin, Zac Fisher, and Ollie Hollands will not be part of the lineup for this elimination final. One of these players, along with Jesse Motlop, will be named as the substitute an hour before the match commences.
Blake Acres, the in-form wingman, has been selected to play, having passed his fitness test “with flying colours,” as confirmed by Voss. With his previous finals experience at Fremantle, Acres adds a valuable dimension to Carlton’s lineup, making it one of five players with finals experience for the upcoming game.
This match marks a significant milestone as the Blues field a complete midfield lineup consisting of Acres, Adam Cerra, Patrick Cripps, Sam Docherty, George Hewett, and Sam Walsh. The last time Carlton boasted such a formidable midfield was during their victory over Port Adelaide in Round 18.