Arabic version: كارلتون يهزم ملبورن ويتأهل إلى نهائي الإقصاء في دوري كرة القدم الأسترالية

According to ABC News, Carlton defeated Melbourne 10.14 (74) to 7.13 (55) in an AFL wildcard match at the MCG on Saturday, securing an elimination final against Geelong.

The Blues recovered after Melbourne kicked the opening four goals and led by 21 points late in the first quarter. Carlton responded with five straight goals, with Brodie Kemp putting the Blues ahead for the first time. Melbourne held a one-point advantage at half-time before Carlton took a four-point lead into the final term.

Jagga Smith produced 29 disposals and nine clearances, and kicked two last-quarter goals. His set-shot goal late in the match sealed the result. Sam Walsh had 39 disposals and six clearances, while Ben Ainsworth kicked three goals and collected 21 disposals. Harry McKay kicked two goals.

Carlton captain Patrick Cripps recorded 22 disposals while playing through a left knee issue and close attention from Jack Steele. Jacob Weitering led the Blues defence with support from Harry Dean and Nick Haynes.

Melbourne had 17 inside-50s to Carlton’s nine during the third quarter but did not capitalise on its opportunities. Captain Max Gawn finished with 31 disposals and 27 hitouts, while Kysaiah Pickett had six shots at goal but scored 0.3. The loss ended Melbourne’s season and marked the retirements of Tom McDonald and Jake Melksham.

Carlton, which reached the wildcard round after finishing 10th, will meet sixth-placed Geelong at the MCG on Friday, September 4, at 7:40pm AEST.