The first half of Round 18 has concluded. So far there have been many upsets.
This round has reshuffled the order of the top eight and has ensured a tight finish to the year. I’ll preview the big talking points and review my tips.
Who won in a big Friday night game?
Under fire, Carlton produced a magnificent display against an inconsistent and extremely disappointing North Melbourne, who have now lost all chance of sneaking into the top four. Carlton starred and pressured the Roos, as Jarrad Waite and Lachie Henderson led the way for Carlton, booting four and six goals apiece.
North Melbourne couldn’t capitalise on their momentum in the second half, as they looked set to overrun the Blues, but couldn’t kick the goals that they needed. The Blues then made them pay late in the game.
The Roos looked exposed as Drew Petrie was nullified, meaning that North’s only target was Lindsay Thomas, who couldn’t carry the team over the line alone. Carlton will now be looking to finish off the season positively, with this performance a glimpse of their potential.
North Melbourne now have to win their remaining games or they won’t make the top eight. They will have to fight, and will most likely just be in the eight when September comes.
Who won – the Dons or the Dogs?
The Dons did, but it was a tight and spirited affair that was one of the better quality contests of the season. The Bulldogs controlled for most of the day, with many of their youngsters starring.
Jake Carlisle kicked eight goals to drag his Bombers back into it, as Dyson Heppell was instrumental late in what was a gutsy and well fought seven-point victory. In a high scoring contest (101-94) Carlisle yet again was best on ground, as he proved to be decisive considering he was the only tall target with Joe Daniher out.
Essendon can now look towards moving up to sixth as they are only behind North Melbourne by percentage. The Bulldogs have yet again impressed as their form has been quite brilliant for a young and inexperienced team.
Watch out in the next few weeks as the new brigade of the Western Bulldogs could give them a flag. Watch out for Essendon this September too, they have the ability to claim some huge scalps come finals time.
Tipping
I tipped 3/5, with my incorrect matches being Carlton-North Melbourne and St Kilda-Fremantle.
Sidenote: I was eight off for the margin of the Port-Melbourne game.
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