Melbourne captain James McDonald won the individual battle, but Carlton counterpart Chris Judd was devastating when the game was there to be won.
McDonald had another outstanding match in Saturday’s 41-point AFL loss to Carlton at the MCG, tagging Judd and keeping him to only 14 disposals over the first three quarters.
The Demons had fought back in the third term to reduce the margin to 19 points, meaning the start of the last quarter would be critical.
Judd had four clearances, eight disposals and kicked a goal early in the final term as he stamped his considerable authority on the match.
“It was like he just said ‘well, I’m going to take this game by the scruff of the neck and do something about it’,” said Blues coach Brett Ratten.
“He just really led by example …. he just changes the game in short periods, which all champions do.”
Melbourne coach Dean Bailey was full of praise for McDonald, who ended the game hobbling with hamstring soreness.
For all McDonald’s hard work, Bailey is a realist – at some point, Judd was bound to have an impact.
“James has been playing like that for the whole year, his attitude and preparation and effort in games have been first-class,” Bailey said.
“He would be probably our most consistent player over the whole year.
“James has led from the front, he’s been outstanding.
“His job and his role on Judd today were fantastic and Judd of course shows with just a couple of opportunities, he will turn it around.”
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