After a highly scrutinized defeat against Richmond in the season opener, Carlton faced Hawthorn at the MCG on March 20, 2025, hoping to put their best foot forward in Round 2 of the AFL season. Unfortunately for the Blues, they had to embrace this challenge without key player Harry McKay, who was a late withdrawal due to illness, replaced by Lewis Young in the lineup.
The atmosphere at the iconic Melbourne venue was damp with weather reports predicting up to 25mm of rain, which added an extra layer of challenge as the clock ticked towards the first bounce at 7:30 PM AEDT. Conditions were swiftly becoming reminiscent of the wet and slippery surfaces that often dictate the style of play, particularly favoring players skilled in contested football.
“He will miss with illness,” confirmed Fox Footy reporter Jon Ralph, emphasizing the impact of McKay's absence, especially on a night where he was expected to shine. Coach Michael Voss acknowledged that missing McKay forced the team to rely even more heavily on star player Charlie Curnow, who returned to the lineup for Carlton, taking the place of Francis Evans.
The match-up between the Blues and the Hawks has always been intense, as both teams come from a long-standing rivalry and are considered powerhouses in Victorian football. With Hawthorn riding the wave of confidence from two consecutive victories and contemplating a spot at the top of the ladder, the stakes for Carlton couldn't be higher.
This game had also drawn considerable interest from fans not only for the rivalry but also due to the fantasy football scene, with a substantial $75,000 prize pool available through Draftstars’ main contest. For those looking to bet, smart money was on Hawthorn, with odds at $1.39 against Carlton’s $3.02 as betting markets opened.
As the day progressed, the weather shifted dramatically—Melbourne sun had been replaced by rainy clouds, creating an unpredictable environment. According to forecasts, showers were expected to develop throughout the evening, which meant adjustments might need to be made on both sides.
Voss had previously emphasized teamwork, stating, “What makes a difference is that when we stay connected as an 18-man team.” This mentality would be tested against a Hawthorn team that showcased a cunning strategy emphasizing midfield control and skillful forwards capable of capitalizing on any defensive failures.
Carlton supporters had come out in numbers, hoping for a turnaround after their rough start to the season. One devoted fan, Dale Chaffey, who traveled from the NSW Southern Highlands for the game, captured the sentiments of many: “Last week was pretty scary but we can’t be like that the rest of the season. They [the Blues] are a much better team.”
Upon kick-off, it was clear that the wet conditions had altered strategic plans. The lack of McKay meant that Carlton needed to play with greater intensity to secure possession and contest the ball, an area they’d been strong in during the previous season.
Heeding Voss’s call, the Blues aimed to focus on controlling the possession, and with players such as Patrick Cripps leading the charge, they were poised to make a statement. The Hawks, however, weren’t just a formidable challenge; their recent form positioned them as serious contenders, buoyed by the returns of Changkuoth Jiath and Jack Gunston.
These factors heightened the tension in the air as both teams prepared for what promised to be a thrilling encounter under the lights of the MCG. Regardless of the mounting pressure, Voss remained optimistic, noting that the team had pulled together to prepare for this tricky showdown. “It’s about putting forward our best effort collectively,” he remarked.
Fans kept their eyes glued to the field, aware that a loss could spell deeper trouble for Carlton, even in the early stages of the season. The Blues understood the frustrations of their loyal supporters after the loss to a perceived wooden spooner. Now, every moment counted in proving that they were indeed contenders for the season.
As the players took the field, an electric atmosphere flickered within the crowd. Would Carlton manage to turn around their fortunes against Hawthorn in this crucial game for both sides, or would the Hawks maintain their momentum towards a perfect start to the season? That remained to be seen.
