Carlton suffers another injury setback as winger Blake Acres is set to miss Friday night’s match against Port Adelaide. Acres is the third player to be ruled out this week, joining star ruck Tom De Koning and defender Sam Durdin on the sidelines. Despite being cleared of foot damage, Acres couldn’t recover in time for the five-day break, but the Blues are hopeful for his return in the following round’s blockbuster against Collingwood.
Acres has been a key, albeit underrated, player for Carlton since transferring from Fremantle at the end of 2022, known for his hard running and clutch goal-kicking. His absence opens the door for youngster Jaxon Binns, who impressed with 47 possessions and three goals in the VFL, or they might opt for the versatile Matthew Cottrell on the wing.
Coach Voss confirmed Marc Pittonet would replace De Koning in the ruck but did not disclose other changes. Defenders Mitch McGovern and Jordan Boyd are expected to return from short-term injuries, while Caleb Marchbank and Brodie Kemp are also vying for promotion.
Voss praised the recent performances of Adam Cerra and Matthew Kennedy in defense but indicated they would likely return to their usual midfield roles with the return of key players. Finishing second on the ladder is crucial for Carlton, who risk facing tougher qualifying finals if they drop to third or fourth. The Blues have held second since round 14 but are now vulnerable after losses to Greater Western Sydney and the Western Bulldogs.
