Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Carlton vs Richmond delivered a tense Saturday night finish at the MCG, where Carlton held off Richmond by two points to win 10.14 (74) to 10.12 (72) in front of 54,923 fans.
The Blues trailed by 18 points at quarter-time but kicked eight of the next nine goals, keeping their finals push alive under interim coach Josh Fraser.
The result came on a night also marked by concern for Richmond midfielder Jack Ross, with more on his injury available in Jack Ross’ concussion blow during Carlton’s win over Richmond.
Blues Hold Nerve Late
Carlton looked safe when they led by 14 points with less than three minutes left, but Richmond surged after two late free kicks in front of goal.
The Tigers won the next centre clearance and forced the ball inside 50 in the dying seconds, yet Carlton survived four stoppages to seal a seventh straight win.
"We're able to find a way to get repeat stoppages, find a way to get first possession," Fraser said.
"It's not pretty at that time of the game when there's a small margin, but we seem to be embracing those moments a bit better, maybe than what we have in the past.
"Certainly training them more."
Carlton’s Finals Push Gathers Pace
Carlton have now squared their season at 8-8 and climbed from 16th to 10th since Michael Voss was sacked.
With the new wildcard round in place, the Blues are in a finals position that looked unlikely two months ago.
George Hewett kicked the match-winning goal and capped a best-on-ground display, while Jagga Smith starred with a game-high 29 disposals.
Former Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley compared Smith to Zak Butters during radio commentary.
Richmond Rue Missed Chance
Richmond started strongly with 5.3 in the opening term, their best first quarter of the season.
Sam Walsh gave away a free kick after pushing Jasper Alger at quarter-time, with Alger converting as players from both sides joined a heated melee.
Tom Lynch had a poor night, missing three shots and remaining stranded on 499 career goals.
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