Carlton's coach Michael Voss is steadfast in his approach following a shaky start to the 2025 AFL season, insisting there is no need for sweeping changes despite the team's alarming round 1 loss to Richmond. In a game that saw the Blues squander a 41-point lead, Voss emphasized the importance of maintaining confidence and continuity as they prepare to face Hawthorn on Thursday night, March 20, 2025.
Reflecting on the costly loss, Voss stated, "We’re really confident on the body of work we’ve been able to complete over the pre-season. I couldn’t be more impressed with our prep; that (result) seemed a bit unusual to me." The coach pointed out that the Blues had recorded a competition-low number of rebound 50s—only 27—compared to Richmond's staggering competition-high of 55, a statistic that raised concerns about Carlton's defensive efforts.
Voss's strategy is clear: rather than reacting impulsively to a single defeat, he plans to stick with their season-long vision. The coach articulated, "I don’t think that means it’s not addressed; we’re trying to find that version where we’re consistent no matter the circumstance." He encourages the players to focus on the bigger picture and how they execute their strategy in the upcoming matches.
Fortunately for the Blues, their fortunes may take a turn with the anticipated return of star forward Charlie Curnow from an ankle injury. "He’s well and truly ready, speaking (to him) yesterday; he’s really excited and keen to get out there," Voss remarked. Curnow's return is significant, not just because of his individual talents as a two-time Coleman Medal winner, but also due to the morale boost he provides to the team. However, Voss cautioned against placing the burden of responsibility solely on Curnow, stating, "we’re not in this conversation around one person is going to make a difference here. Clearly, what makes the difference is when we stay connected as an 18-man team."
If Carlton falls to Hawthorn, the scrutiny will only intensify as they approach crucial games against the Western Bulldogs and Collingwood in the subsequent weeks.
Voss concluded, firm in his leadership stance, asserting, "Sometimes in these instances when things don’t go well you’ve got to double down on things; you just can’t go, ‘oh well that didn’t work, there were a few errors, let’s go in a different direction.’ I think that you’re folding to a noise if you want to call it that when you’ve been rehearsing something for a long period of time and seen it work and execute. We just need to make sure we transfer it on the weekend."
As the Blues gear up for an important clash against Hawthorn, Michael Voss’s messaging remains consistent: stay the course, build on past preparation, and remind the squad of the importance of teamwork over individual stardom. The upcoming games will not only test Carlton's resolve and strategy but also shape their trajectory for the rest of the season.
