For Carlton, the writing was on the wall – and not just at their home base – that this contest against the Magpies wouldn’t be a pleasant experience.

Embarrassed by North Melbourne, and humiliated by flat-tracker Port Adelaide, it was difficult to see how the Blues would atone against their fiercest foe, given that Collingwood had won 13 of 15, sat atop the ladder and had vastly superior skill, composure, system and leadership.

It was another dirty night for Carlton and their faithful.Credit: AFL Photos

The Blues had also lost Adam Saad and Jack Silvagni from the team that was so inept against Port, as Michael Voss responded with six changes, including the somewhat capable kid Ashton Moir. None of the incoming Blues, however, were likely to move the needle towards an upset, or even to reduce the margin of defeat.

That the Blues and Pies had roughly equivalent players absent – the Pies without Steele Sidebottom and half a dozen others from their optimal 23 – meant that Carlton was much worse off, since their depth is toddler-pool shallow. Sam Walsh’s unavailability was particularly harmful, given that the Blues have far less running capacity and would struggle to contain Nick Daicos, Jack Crisp and company once the ball was turned over.

The Blues were found badly wanting against their arch rivals.Credit: AFL Photos

The Carlton fans – steadfast throughout this season – had voted with their feet, to some degree, for this Friday night. For any........

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