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Jack Turner's avatar

Great article. You probably wouldn't be surprised to learn that my Carlton TBP co-host hates Adelaide with a passion for reasons outlined in the first paragraph.

My one disagreement is that I actually DO believe that Ollie Hollands is a star in waiting. Also that I think Carlton's most important player is secretly (a fit) Sam Walsh.

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Mateo Szlapek-Sewillo's avatar

Big Bad Benny Keays, coming for the Blues!

I'm a bit of a Hollands sceptic after last year, but always open to having my mind changed. Having Walsh as most important is interesting. I can't look past Cripps, but there's no doubt he gives them some speed and on-ball aggression they often lack

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Jack Turner's avatar

The game that showed Walsh’s value for me was arguably the one Cripps benefited from the most.

R12 against Port last year, Walsh did all the grunt work allowing Cripps to get outside of the contest and be more open. Coaches Votes Walsh, Brownlow Votes Cripps.

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Jack McPherson's avatar

Great write up Mate!

Could have used a trigger/content warning before you mention the loss to GWS in Rd 17 last year. One of the most frustrating games ever.

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Mateo Szlapek-Sewillo's avatar

Apologies, Jack. There sure were a few frustrating results, but that one takes the cake for mine because of how comprehensive it ended up being (although someone did point out to me that both Weitering and Curnow picked up knocks in that game, so... slight asterisk?).

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Gusroy's avatar

Great read.

I feel the delisting/retirement of a number of the continually injured players, many that had proven talent or had shown potential, will improve the injury converts, but might impact the depth of talent.

The trading out of Kennedy and Owies will also hurt the Blue’s depth, while also offering opportunities to some younger fringe types.

An intriguing season hard to get a clear read on

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Boundsy's avatar

Excellent analysis.

Yes, similar concerns... Voss' inability to make in-game changes is a continuing worry... plus those gaps in our list. .

I still feel much has to go wrong with the other contenders and a good dose of luck has to cone our way to reach the peak of the mountain this year.

It will certainly be a fascinating year for us Blues fans

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