From fearful to fearsome: Why the Blues are no longer spooked by pressure

September 3, 2026 — 11:00am

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For a long time, Carlton’s enormous supporter base appeared to be as much a burden as a source of strength.

Its passion came attached to expectation. When games began to turn, the Blues often seemed to feel the consequences of losing before the result had been decided. The noise became heavier, the football tighter and the fear of another disappointment difficult to escape.

Under Josh Fraser, that relationship has changed.

Carlton are no longer shrinking from the emotion surrounding the club. They are leaning into it, turning pressure into energy rather than treating it as something to fear.

That shift was evident against Melbourne in front of more than 91,000 people. After conceding the opening four goals, the Blues could easily have been swallowed by the occasion. Instead, they remained composed, trusted their system and gradually worked their way back into the contest.

Fraser said afterwards that his players did not become “spooked”. They stayed connected when momentum was against them and delivered what he described as a mature performance.

That response demonstrated how far Carlton have come. This is not simply a side playing with greater freedom because the coach has changed. The Blues have developed a clearer game plan, greater trust in one another and, most importantly, evidence that both can stand up under pressure.

Belief can be spoken about inside football clubs until it loses all meaning. Fraser has given Carlton something more valuable: proof.

The Blues have beaten Fremantle,........

© Brisbane Times