Blues brothers out to stop Suns

AFL: Carlton coach Brendon Bolton suspects the Gold Coast might target defender Sam Docherty when they clash tonight at Metricon Stadium, but warned clamping down on him had the potential to backfire.

All-Australian lock Docherty has formed a formidable partnership with evergreen flanker Kade Simpson this season, directing traffic and rebounding out of the Blues’ back half.

“I’m sure they will (target him), he’s been real quality for us off halfback but so have our other defenders,” Bolton said.

“These days you stop one player and it opens up for another so it will be interesting to see how that one unfolds.”

Suns spearhead Tom Lynch booted seven goals at Etihad Stadium to sink the Blues early in the season, while champion Gary Ablett amassed a game-high 34 disposals.

Prized No.1 pick Jacob Weitering will have first crack at Lynch, with help from Caleb Marchbank and sensation Liam Jones.

“He’ll (Weitering) get a chance to play there, which will be good learning for him because he’s a quality mark – in fact he’s probably as good as anyone in the competition in the air.”

Bolton, meanwhile, has given a strong indication Simpson remains part of the Blues’ future plans.

A contract extension would give the in-form 33-year-old defender a chance of reaching the 300-game milestone.

Bolton yesterday was careful not to discuss Simpson’s future but indicated the Blues would reward form.

“Without discussing publicly because that’s out of respect ... what I do know is our club usually rewards form,” Bolton said.

“(Simpson is a) fantastic player and been a stalwart for our club for a long time.”