Carlton's recent performance under coach Josh Fraser signals a marked turnaround for the AFL club, demonstrating a tactical evolution that has made them a formidable opponent heading into the finals. On Saturday night, Carlton executed a game plan focused on careful ball movement and possession retention, deliberately avoiding long kicks down the line—particularly to Melbourne captain Max Gawn, a dominant aerial presence.
Fraser’s Blues have increasingly steered away from traditional long-distance ball delivery, opting instead for shorter, angled passes designed to maintain control and evade key opposition players. This strategy effectively neutralized Gawn, who was unable to secure a contested mark or register an intercept possession during the match—a rare occurrence this season. Carlton’s disciplined approach to “staying offline” limited Melbourne’s ability to use their star ruckman as a launchpad for attacks.
“We weren’t kicking it to (Gawn) often, because of how good he is in the air,” Fraser explained, reflecting on the tactical adjustments. “The players’ ability to keep working to provide that option to keep the ball offline and try to go around Max where we could… it wasn’t perfect, but the persistence was key.”
This game plan represents a departure from Carlton’s previous style, which critics often described as predictable or inconsistent, particularly in managing tempo. Earlier in the season, the team struggled with confidence in second halves, frequently losing leads and displaying signs of self-doubt. However, the Blues that will face Geelong in Friday’s elimination final appear considerably more resilient and composed.
Fraser noted that even when Melbourne opened a three-goal lead early, Carlton did not waver. “It didn’t feel like we got spooked,” Fraser said. “Momentum was against us, but we stayed connected, trusted the system. It felt like a really mature performance, especially in that first quarter. At no point did we look fazed.”
The coach credited both a cohesive team effort and the improved form of key players for the resurgence. Midfielder Sam Walsh, in particular, delivered a standout performance, collecting 39 disposals along with multiple tackles and intercepts. Walsh’s ability to maintain running power and apply pressure was complemented by the physicality of teammates Patrick Cripps and George Hewett and the inside extraction work of Jagga Smith.
Fraser emphasized a collective responsibility and trust among players, moving away from reliance on individual efforts to a more balanced team contribution. “Maybe historically, there have been certain players who felt they had to do everything,” he said. “The intent was fine, but misguided. You just have to be reliable in your role and trust the guy next to you.”
Over the past 14 or 15 weeks, Carlton’s even distribution of contributions has been a defining feature of their improved performances. With this renewed confidence and strategic adaptability, the Blues aim to continue their momentum as they prepare for the upcoming final against Geelong.