With the AFL finals set to begin, Andrew McGarry runs the rule over the eight contenders and analyses their strengths as well as the weaknesses that may stand in the way of a premiership win.
One of the core reasons for this defence is, of course, their intercept abilities, and the star duo of Steven May and Jake Lever.
Stats-wise, they lead the league in contested marks, their defensive forward pressure is excellent and they are third for inside 50s.Melbourne's forward set-up has been the biggest risk in recent years, even when they were at their peak in 2021. Bayley Fritsch is their best option, but he is not 100 per cent fit, and if he gets injured there will be big problems. They have an X-factor in Kysaiah Pickett, but the season-ending injury to Jake Melksham is a big blow.
Then there is the small matter of having the AFL's hottest forward in Charlie Curnow, who can kick a bag on teams, and go back and take to the defensive hotspot and take matchwinning intercept marks if needed. The Blues' scoring is very one-sided, based off stoppages and clearances. Punishing teams from turnovers is not their forte, and that means if rivals can come close to breaking even at scoring from clearances, they are likely to have too much for Carlton.
His defensive outlook has again inspired the Saints this season, as at their best they are able to control matches with a high-possession, mark-heavy game plan.
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