We Were Gone From All the Injuries: Carlton FC’s Struggles and the Road to Recovery
The 2024 season has been an unforgiving one for Carlton FC. From the very start, injuries plagued the squad, derailing what was supposed to be a promising campaign. The Blues, coming off a solid 2023, had high hopes of contending for the finals. But as the injuries piled up, it seemed like Carlton was always playing catch-up, struggling to maintain momentum. Players were sidelined for weeks, with some taking months to recover. The long absences stretched the club’s depth thin, testing both the resolve of the players and the patience of fans.
For Carlton fans, it felt like an eternity watching the team soldier on without key players. The injuries weren’t just minor knocks that kept players out for a week or two. Some of the squad’s most critical members were sidelined for up to two months. With so many key figures missing from the starting line-up, it’s no surprise that the Blues’ form suffered. The chemistry that had built up over previous seasons was hard to replicate with a makeshift team week in and week out.
From hamstring strains to more serious knee issues, it was clear that the physical toll on the players was immense. The lack of consistency in the team sheet took its toll on the overall performance. Carlton’s coaching staff had to juggle players around, trying to find a system that could work with the available resources. But the team could never find a rhythm, and each setback on the injury front seemed to hurt even more than t
Amidst the chaos, one player seemed to embody the spirit and resilience of the Blues—Sam Docherty. “Doc,” as he is affectionately known by fans, has been a pillar of strength for the team, leading from the front even through tough times. His battle with injury has been well documented, but he’s always managed to come back stronger, earning respect both on and off the field.
But the 2024 season was especially tough for Docherty. With a few niggling injuries of his own, the team captain was in and out of the lineup, never quite hitting his stride. However, his leadership and presence were felt whenever he was on the field. Doc’s tenacity, his never-say-die attitude, and his ability to lift the team’s spirits even when the chips were down were crucial.
As the season heads towards its conclusion, fans are hopeful that Doc will stay fit over the summer. The upcoming preseason will be a crucial time for Carlton FC, and having Docherty in top form will be essential for their resurgence. His body has been through a lot, but bless his soul, if anyone can make it through the rigors of AFL and stay fit, it’s Docherty.
One lingering question that has kept fans talking is, “When will we play Brisbane in Melbourne?” The rivalry with the Lions has become an exciting fixture over the years, and there’s anticipation around the idea of hosting Brisbane on home turf. However, the AFL scheduling gods have kept this clash a mystery. Carlton fans have been eagerly awaiting a potential showdown in Melbourne, especially after some nail-biting contests in the past.
With three interstate matches already played against Brisbane this season, Carlton has yet to find a rhythm when facing them. Playing Brisbane on their home soil is never easy, but the Blues are hopeful that the next time they meet, it will be in Melbourne, where the crowd’s energy and home advantage might swing things in their favor.
Facing Brisbane away from home three times has certainly been a challenge for Carlton FC. Every game against the Lions was tough, with Brisbane boasting a talented, well-rounded squad that can grind out wins. The Blues, depleted by injuries, found it difficult to match Brisbane’s intensity, especially without the full strength of their squad.
Each interstate match against Brisbane seemed to highlight Carlton’s vulnerabilities. The absence of key players and the constant need to shuffle the lineup hurt their chances. Brisbane exploited Carlton’s lack of consistency, and the Blues struggled to put together a solid performance across all four quarters.
While it’s never ideal to play so many interstate games against a strong opponent, the Blues can take solace in the fact that they were competitive in parts of those matches. But Carlton fans are undoubtedly hungry for redemption. A clash in Melbourne could be the perfect opportunity to finally take down the Lions and reassert their position as contenders.
As the season winds down, the focus will inevitably turn to the offseason and how Carlton FC can rebuild for 2025. A lot of work will need to be done, both in terms of player recovery and list management. The medical team will be working overtime to ensure that those who have been sidelined come back fully fit. The coaching staff will be keen to address the issues that arose during the injury-riddled season and make sure that the Blues are stronger and better prepared next year.
Carlton fans are resilient, much like their team, and while this season hasn’t gone to plan, there’s a sense of optimism that the worst is behind them. With key players returning to full fitness and the club’s young talents gaining valuable experience, the pieces are in place for a brighter future.
Injuries may have derailed 2024, but Carlton FC’s story is far from over. The club has a rich history of bouncing back from adversity, and there’s every reason to believe that they can do so once again. As long as they can keep their core group fit and firing, 2025 could be the year when the Blues finally live up to their potential.
For now, the Carlton faithful will continue to hope for a Brisbane clash in Melbourne, dream of a full-strength team, and put their faith in the players who wear the navy blue.
