The Big AFL Season Kickoff: A Grudge Match and New Faces
Get ready for an explosive start to the AFL season! Carlton is bringing in a whole new squad to face off against Charlie Curnow and the Swans, and it's going to be a grudge match to remember.
Carlton's New Blood
The Blues are pulling out all the stops, with seven fresh faces ready to make their mark. Jagga Smith and Harry Dean will make their debuts, but that's just the beginning. The team has also recruited ex-Swans Will Hayward and Ollie Florent, along with Ben Ainsworth, Liam Reidy, and Campbell Chesser. It's an exciting mix of talent and experience.
But here's where it gets controversial... Carlton has opted for Mitch McGovern and Lewis Young in a key defensive role, leaving pre-season signing Wade Derksen on the bench. This strategic move could be a game-changer, especially with Jacob Weitering back from a rib injury.
Swans' Debutants and a Familiar Face
Meanwhile, the Swans are unveiling their own recruits, Jai Serong and Malcolm Rosas, in Curnow's first game against his former team. It's a chance for these newcomers to make their mark and show their skills.
And this is the part most people miss... Errol Gulden, despite a minor ankle injury, is good to go for the Swans. His presence could be a crucial factor in the outcome of the match.
Injury Updates and Absences
The Swans will be without Braeden Campbell (shin) and Harry Cunningham, but Carlton also has its fair share of injuries. Francis Evans, Nick Haynes, Adam Cerra, Matt Cottrell, and Jesse Motlop are all out, leaving some key positions up for grabs.
Opening Round Lineups
Here's a sneak peek at the teams for the highly anticipated opening round:
Sydney Swans vs Carlton
Thursday, March 5th, 7:30 pm at the SCG
Swans:
Backline: L.Melican, T.McCartin, D.Rampe
Half-Back: C.Mills (c), N.Blakey, S.Wicks
Midfield: J.Jordon, I.Heeney, M.Roberts
Half-Forward: M.Rosas, J.Rowbottom, T.Papley
Forward: J.Amartey, C.Curnow, L.McDonald
Ruck: B.Grundy, E.Gulden, Ch.Warner
Interchange: R.Bice, J.McInerney, J.Serong, J.Lloyd, A.Sheldrick
Emergencies: P.Ladhams, Co.Warner, H.McLean
Blues:
Backline: O.Florent, J.Weitering, L.Young
Half-Back: H.Dean, M.McGovern, A.Saad
Midfield: O.Hollands, P.Cripps (c), W.Hayward
Half-Forward: L.Fogarty, H.McKay, B.Ainsworth
Forward: J.Smith, B.Kemp, A.Moir
Ruck: M.Pittonet, G.Hewett, S.Walsh
Interchange: Z.Williams, L.Reidy, E.Hollands, C.Chesser, C.Lord
Emergencies: T.Byrne, H.O'Keeffe, J.Boyd
Other Matches
- Gold Coast Suns vs Geelong
- GWS Giants vs Hawthorn
- Brisbane Lions vs Western Bulldogs
- St Kilda vs Collingwood
All times are AEDT, and the action is set to be LIVE and ad-break free on FOX FOOTY via Kayo Sports.
So, who do you think will come out on top in this opening round? Will Carlton's new recruits make a splash, or will the Swans' debutants steal the show? Let's discuss in the comments and share your predictions!
