Former AFL coach Rodney Eade has expressed his disbelief over Carlton being considered a top-four contender this season, asserting that the club lacks a competitive roster. Following a disappointing loss to Richmond, Carlton faces a challenging match against premiership hopefuls Hawthorn at the MCG on Thursday night.
In response to the defeat, Carlton coach Michael Voss has made only one change to the line-up, reinstating two-time Coleman Medallist Charlie Curnow, who has recovered from an ankle injury. Despite Curnow joining All-Australians Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh, and Jacob Weitering, Eade believes the team’s depth is concerning, stating, “I don’t reckon Carlton has got a great list… their bottom 10 is nearly as bad as anyone else’s bottom 10.”
Eade does agree with Voss’s decision not to make extensive changes following the loss, recognising the need for continuity at this stage of the season. He recalled his own coaching experience, noting the importance of giving players another opportunity to prove themselves.
The pressure on the Blues has intensified after their recent loss, with Eade commenting that the players “choked” under pressure. Former Essendon coach James Hird has suggested that Carlton could benefit from emulating Collingwood’s intense tackling style, which saw them achieve a significant turnaround against Port Adelaide after an earlier defeat to GWS. Hird encouraged Carlton to focus on applying pressure to Hawthorn, particularly in denying them time and space, as Hawthorn is currently performing at a high level.
Adding to the concerns, Essendon legend Matthew Lloyd commented on the immense pressure faced by Carlton, especially after their surprising loss to a much younger Richmond team. Lloyd noted that the upcoming match against Hawthorn, who he regards as potentially the best side in the league, poses a significant challenge for the Blues.
As Carlton seeks to recover from their setback, the looming question remains whether they can rise to the occasion amid increasing scrutiny and expectations.