Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Patrick Cripps Carlton criticism has been pushed back by defender Nic Newman, who says the Blues captain was judged too harshly during the club’s poor start to the AFL season.
Cripps has helped lead Carlton’s seven-match winning streak under interim coach Josh Fraser, lifting the club into the finals race after a 1-8 opening that led to Michael Voss being sacked.
The Blues’ turnaround has become one of the major AFL stories of the season, with Josh Fraser’s Carlton case growing as the club’s form continues to rise.
Newman Defends Cripps
Cripps was heavily questioned earlier in the season, with some critics suggesting the game had moved past the two-time Brownlow medallist.
"Crippa's harshly judged at times," Newman told reporters on Monday.
"He had a couple of down games earlier in the year, but he's also got a bloke hanging off him and following him around everywhere.
"He played some good footy early in the year, but probably just had a couple of down games, and everyone was pretty quick to jump on.
"He's a champion of the game and he's been in great form and led from the front."
Cripps has since been voted best afield by the coaches in four of Carlton’s first six games under Fraser, and equal-best in another.
Hewett Adds To Midfield Lift
Newman also praised George Hewett, who has rebounded strongly after spending a month in the VFL.
Hewett, Carlton’s best-and-fairest winner last season, has averaged more than 26 disposals and one goal across his past six matches.
"Anyone who knows George's character knew that he was going to fight through that little patch," Newman said.
"He's just such a hard worker that it was always going to turn for him."
Hawthorn Test Looms
Carlton sit 10th at 8-8 before Saturday night’s MCG clash with third-placed Hawthorn.
The Hawks could regain Nick Watson, who missed the loss to Melbourne with hamstring tightness.
""It's going to be a huge test. They play the 'G really well and they'll probably get a few back as well," Newman said.
Official AFL updates are available through the AFL.
