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All Eyes on Young Guns Showdown for Blues, Tigers Clash

On Thursday, March 12, 2026, the Carlton Blues defeated the Richmond Tigers 75-71 before a crowd of 74,313 at the MCG.
Richmond's Sam Lalor and Carlton's Jagga Smith finally faced off in the midfield after being drafted at the end of 2024, a matchup coaches Adem Yze and Michael Voss eagerly anticipated.
Carlton defender Harry Dean clashed physically with Tigers star Tom Lynch throughout the match, later telling Fox Footy he intended to "give something back" after being pushed around.
After battling a painful ankle knock, Zac Williams swapped into the forward line to score the winning goal, while Carlton maintained clearance dominance, 20-13.
Smith recorded 16 disposals in his high-stakes debut, while Richmond faces pressure to address midfield dominance issues that proved costly in the contest.

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WA today

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Brisbane Times

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‘We were targeted all week’: Voss’ pointed words after Blues’ thrilling prime-time win

Carlton Blues vs Richmond Tigers in round one of the 2026 AFL premiership season at the MCG at 7.30pm AEDT. Seven, Kayo and Fox Footy are broadcasting the match live. Follow this live blog for minute-by-minute updates, scores, results, odds, squads, injury updates and start time.

2 days ago·Northbridge, Australia

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ABC Australia

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Blues hang on for scratchy but vital win over Tigers at the MCG

Carlton kicks only one goal in the second half, but it is just enough to hold off a late charge by a wayward Richmond at the MCG.

2 days ago·Australia

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PerthNow

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All eyes on young guns showdown for Blues, Tigers clash

Richmond's former No.1 draft pick Sam Lalor and Carlton sensation Jagga Smith will face off for the first time and both their coaches are excited.

3 days ago·City of Perth, Australia

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Sydney Morning Herald

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The Age

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AFL round one teams and expert tips: Bombers name three debutants for ‘Merrett match’ v Hawks

All the teams as they’re announced for round one of the AFL season – plus the experts give their tips for the first full round of footy for 2026.

3 days ago·Sydney, Australia

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Fox Sports Australia

Blues recruit dropped after one game; draftee debuts amid Tigers surprises — AFL Teams Round 1

Carlton has dropped two players including a new recruit following its Opening Round shellacking, as Richmond confirms a debut for a top-10 pick. Round 1 teams below!

3 days ago·Australia

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