A stellar performance from Patrick Cripps propelled Carlton to a convincing 34-point victory over Yartapuulti at Adelaide Oval, allowing caretaker coach Josh Fraser to maintain his perfect record in charge. The Blues triumphed with a score of 13.14 (92) to 8.10 (58) on Saturday night, marking Fraser's second win in as many games.

Cripps Leads the Charge

Cripps, the team captain and dual Brownlow Medal winner, was instrumental in the victory, amassing 31 disposals, eight clearances, a goal, and nine score involvements. He set the pace early in the match, contributing 19 touches and a goal during a dominant first half that saw Carlton establish a significant 35-point lead.

Supporting Cripps, forwards Mitch McGovern, Will Hayward, and Brodie Kemp each added two goals to the scoreboard. With this win, Carlton improved its season record to three wins and eight losses, matching Yartapuulti's record.

Power Struggles

Despite the efforts of Yartapuulti's midfield star Zak Butters, who recorded 28 disposals, the Power struggled to keep pace with the Blues. Butters was moved to half-back late in the third quarter as the game slipped away. Meanwhile, Brownlow medallist Ollie Wines had a quiet outing, managing only five disposals.

As the match unfolded, Carlton's midfielders, including George Hewett (26 touches, one goal), Sam Walsh (28, one goal), and Jagga Smith (27 disposals), consistently outperformed their opponents, further solidifying the Blues' dominance on the field.

This victory not only showcases Carlton's potential but also highlights the challenges facing Yartapuulti as they seek to regain form in the 2026 Toyota AFL Premiership Season.