The Blues held off a late comeback from the Swans at the MCG to progress in the AFL finals race to the delight of local Mathoura resident Melyssa Banks.
“The atmosphere at the game was out of this world,” Banks said.
The Blues were dominant in the first half, to lead by 29 points at half-time.
“The Carlton faithful really got around the boys and if there was a roof at the MCG it would have come off,” Banks said.
The Swans kicked into gear after the main break in front of 92,026 fans who were on the edge of their seats.
They came within a goal of the Blues with 30 seconds left on the clock.
The Blues held firm and booked a semi-final showdown with Melbourne on Friday night at the ‘G’.
“There were some moments where I felt we were going to lose it but we held on,” an anxious Banks said.
“I was so excited to be there and to share in the moment with my daughter Jasmyne.
“We can beat anyone on our day and I have a good feeling about playing Melbourne Friday night.
“Unfortunately I cannot go as Mathoura Football Netball Club have their presentation night, and as president I will need to attend.
“I will be barracking hard on the inside and will watch with anxious breath. Go Baggers”.
Patrick Cripps played his first final after 180 games with the Blues.
Final score: Carlton 11.8 (74) def Sydney Swans 9.14 (68).
It now looks like the Marshall family’s favourite team and the Banks family’s Blues will go head to head in Friday night’s clash. This could be interesting, watch this space.