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North Melbourne vs. Carlton: A Tale of Two Good Friday Clashes
The 2025 AFL season saw two dramatically different Good Friday clashes between North Melbourne and Carlton. One was a nail-biting two-point victory for the Kangaroos, a thrilling comeback win at Arden Street Oval. The other? A brutal 82-point demolition at Marvel Stadium, highlighting the vast gulf between the two teams' current form.
The Arden Street Thriller: North Melbourne's Upset Victory
On Good Friday, North Melbourne pulled off a stunning upset, defeating Carlton 12.12 (84) to 12.10 (82). Overcoming a 25-point deficit, the Kangaroos' five-goal-to-one third quarter proved decisive. Key performers included Will Phillips (23 disposals, 10 tackles), Cooper Harvey (three goals), and Wil Dawson (six intercepts). This victory marked North Melbourne's second win of the season, a crucial morale booster.
The Marvel Stadium Massacre: Carlton's Dominant Display
However, the second Good Friday encounter painted a starkly contrasting picture. Carlton utterly dominated North Melbourne, winning 24.9 (153) to 11.5 (71) in a resounding victory. George Hewett’s exceptional performance (34 disposals, 12 clearances, one goal) spearheaded the Blues' midfield dominance. Charlie Curnow and Zac Williams each bagged four goals, showcasing Carlton's attacking prowess. While George Wardlaw shone for North Melbourne upon his return from injury, it wasn't enough to prevent a humiliating defeat.
| Match | Date | Venue | Result | Key Player (Carlton) | Key Player (North Melbourne) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Good Friday Clash 1 | April 18th, 2025 | Arden Street Oval | North Melbourne win by 2 points | N/A | Will Phillips |
| Good Friday Clash 2 | April 18th, 2025 | Marvel Stadium | Carlton win by 82 points | George Hewett | George Wardlaw |
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Teams
The two Good Friday matches revealed the inconsistency and fluctuating fortunes of both North Melbourne and Carlton. While North Melbourne showed glimpses of potential with their Arden Street upset, their subsequent heavy loss highlighted significant defensive vulnerabilities. Carlton, on the other hand, demonstrated their capacity for both thrilling victories and utter dominance, showcasing a team finding its rhythm. The contrast underscores the unpredictable nature of AFL and the ongoing battles for consistency within the league.
