Umpires: Nash, Goldspink, Wenn

Goalkickers: A.Koutoufides 3, S.Kernahan 3, B.Ratten 2, G.Williams 1, R.Welsh 1, A.Hickmott 1, C.Bradley 1, G.Manton 1.

Best: A.Koutoufides, G.Manton, C.Bradley, S.Kernahan, R.De Iulio, B.Ratten & A.Hickmott.

Reports: Nil

Injuries: Nil

Game Review

St Kilda was one of only two teams to defeat the all conquering Blues in 1995 and had also been the team to finally bring their run of wins to an end in the pre-season. They believed they had Carlton's measure, especially without Brad Pearce, Peter Dean, Dean Rice, Earl Spalding and Mil Hanna.

The Saints dominated play in the first term but inaccurate kicking would give them just a 3 point lead at quarter time. Carlton were then able to gradually take control of the match, particularly in the third quarter, with 5 goals to 1 giving them a commanding lead. This was mostly master minded by Greg Williams, in a welcone return to form and Craig Bradley, who were controlling the midfield. The Saints fought back in the final term to get within 9 points but the Blues were too good in the end and recorded its first win against the Saints in 2 years by 22 points.

Super athlete Anthony Koutoufides was best on ground with 26 possessions, 8 marks and 3 goals. Stephen Kernahan's welcome return from a hamstring injury would also provide a much needed target up forward, also yielding 3 goals.

Stephen Silvagni was too good for Stewart Loewe while Glenn Manton and Ron De Iulio were also solid in defence.

Team

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