Blues refuse to lose

No last-gasp slip-up this week as Carlton withstands challenge

IT took a fair dose of heartache, but Carlton avoided a repeat of last week’s Robbie Gray nightmare by digging deep to beat North Melbourne 9.10 (64) to 9.3 (57) at the Gabba yesterday.

The Kangaroos posed a serious threat when they closed to within five points at threequarter-time, but Carlton did enough in the heavy rain in the final quarter to beat North Melbourne for the first time in six years, and remain in the finals race. It was North Melbourne’s sixth consecutive loss.

Matthew Kennedy had 20 disposals and two goals for Carlton.

Elsewhere, one of the most individually dominant ruckmen of recent years, Collingwood superstar Brodie Grundy, will take a team-first approach into the Pies’ clash with the Eagles at Optus Stadium today.

It has flown largely under the radar this season that the ace ruckman has sacrificed some of his own game to play a more selfless role.

The solo grabs out of the ruck and quick kicks forward, which have largely received rave reviews in the past, have been reduced significantly. But his contested marking numbers have risen sharply as he provides an imposing target.

Adelaide assistant coach Ben Hart is backing out-ofform small forward duo Tyson Stengle and Shane McAdam to make an impact as the Crows search for their first win in nearly 12 months when they play Essendon at Adelaide

Oval today. He said Stengle needed to bring his speed to the game more, and flagged McAdam being deployed further up the ground to get the footy.

Veteran Demon Nathan Jones has been named to play against Brisbane at Metricon Stadium today, in his second game of the season.

For the Lions, Archie Smith replaces ruckman Stef Martin.