The 10 Most Significant Carlton Matches at the Home of the Blues.

Carlton Football Club, one of the oldest and most storied clubs in the Australian Football League (AFL), has seen its fair share of glory and heartbreak over the years. The club’s spiritual home, Ikon Park (formerly known as Princes Park), has been the backdrop for some of the most iconic matches in the club’s history. Nestled in the inner suburbs of Melbourne, this venue has been synonymous with Carlton since its establishment in 1897.

Here, we explore the ten most significant Carlton matches at Ikon Park, celebrating the club’s victories and moments that shaped its rich legacy.

1. Carlton vs. South Melbourne (1904)

In one of the earliest significant matches at Ikon Park, Carlton faced South Melbourne in a contest that marked the Blues’ arrival as a powerhouse in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Though the Blues were still emerging as a force, this match is remembered for laying the foundation of their successful run in the 1900s, eventually leading to their first premiership win in 1906.

2. Carlton vs. Essendon (1921) – A Battle for the Finals

This match in 1921 pitted two archrivals against each other in a battle for a spot in the finals. Carlton emerged victorious in a closely contested game, edging out Essendon by less than a goal. The match solidified Carlton’s reputation as a team that thrived under pressure, setting the stage for the club’s third premiership win just a year later.

3. Carlton vs. Collingwood (1945) – The “Bloodbath” Preliminary Final

In what is arguably one of the most notorious matches in VFL/AFL history, Carlton faced Collingwood in the 1945 Preliminary Final. This match was infamous for its violent conduct, with several players reported for brawling, earning the moniker the “Bloodbath.” Carlton triumphed in a highly charged atmosphere, advancing to the Grand Final where they claimed their eighth premiership.

4. Carlton vs. St Kilda (1966) – Farewell to an Icon

The 1966 clash against St Kilda was significant not for its scoreline but for its emotional weight. This game marked the farewell of one of Carlton’s greatest players, John Nicholls, from regular home-and-away matches at Ikon Park. Nicholls, a five-time best and fairest winner and later a club legend, would continue to play, but this match at Carlton’s spiritual home was a poignant moment for fans.

5. Carlton vs. Richmond (1969) – A New Era Begins

The 1969 clash between Carlton and Richmond is remembered as the dawn of a new era. The Blues, under coach Ron Barassi, were transforming into a modern powerhouse. Though they narrowly missed out on premiership success that year, this match was significant as it marked the beginning of Carlton’s dominance in the 1970s.

6. Carlton vs. Collingwood (1970) – The Grand Final Replay

In what is considered one of the greatest matches in VFL history, the 1970 Grand Final between Carlton and Collingwood is legendary. Although the Grand Final itself was not played at Ikon Park, the lead-up matches and the preliminary games at the venue had fans buzzing with excitement. Carlton’s incredible comeback from a 44-point deficit to win the flag stands as one of the club’s most iconic moments, with Ikon Park being the heart of the fans’ celebrations.

7. Carlton vs. Geelong (1981) – The Premiership Quest

The 1981 season saw Carlton embark on a dominant finals campaign, and a crucial game at Ikon Park against Geelong in the latter half of the season reinforced the Blues’ premiership credentials. Carlton’s comprehensive victory over Geelong at their home ground helped secure their position atop the ladder, leading to their eventual Grand Final triumph over Collingwood. This match symbolized Carlton’s reign of dominance during the early 1980s.

8. Carlton vs. Hawthorn (1987) – Champions Again

In 1987, Carlton once again found themselves at the top of the ladder, and a mid-season clash with Hawthorn at Ikon Park was crucial in determining the balance of power. Carlton’s resounding victory against their fierce rivals highlighted their form heading into the finals. The Blues went on to secure their 15th premiership that year, with this match being a turning point in their campaign.

9. Carlton vs. Sydney (1995) – The Last Hurrah

The 1995 season is remembered as one of Carlton’s finest, with the Blues producing a near-perfect season. Their clash against Sydney at Ikon Park was a celebration of the team’s dominance. Carlton dismantled Sydney in front of a passionate home crowd, reaffirming their status as the best team of the decade. The Blues would go on to claim their 16th premiership that year, the last they have won to date.

10. Carlton vs. Melbourne (2005) – The Farewell to Princes Park

In 2005, Ikon Park (then known as Optus Oval) hosted its last AFL match. The Blues took on Melbourne in an emotional farewell to their spiritual home. Although the result wasn’t in Carlton’s favor, the occasion was about more than just the scoreline. It was a celebration of over a century of history at Princes Park, with players and fans reflecting on the memories and triumphs that had unfolded at the iconic ground.

Ikon Park may no longer host regular AFL matches, but its legacy as the heart of Carlton Football Club endures. From legendary players and coaches to unforgettable victories, the ground remains a symbol of Carlton’s resilience, success, and passion. These ten matches are just a glimpse into the storied history of a ground that has witnessed so many chapters of triumph and emotion for the Blues. For Carlton supporters, Ikon Park will always be home.