Despite the Power's massive 74-point loss to Fremantle last weekend, they still secured a finals berth thanks to Essendon's last-ditch win over the Blues. This is a must win for Carlton if it's any hope of sneaking into the eight should the Bombers be stripped of their premiership points. But this is no dead rubber for the Power simply because their finals fate is sealed; consecutive losses is no way to enter a finals campaign and a solid win at home would be the perfect way to farewell AAMI Stadium once and for all.
WHERE AND WHEN: AAMI Stadium, Saturday August 31, 4.10pm
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide and odds
LAST FIVE TIMES
R8, 2013, Carlton 16.13 (109) d Port Adelaide 14.7 (91) at Etihad Stadium
R10, 2012, Port Adelaide 14.15 (99) d Carlton 6.9 (45) at AAMI Stadium
R11, 2011, Carlton 16.15 (111) d Port Adelaide 7.7 (49) at AAMI Stadium
R8, 2010, Carlton 17.16 (118) d Port Adelaide 14.8 (92) at AAMI Stadium
R20, 2009, Carlton 18.13 (121) d Port Adelaide 9.13 (67) at AAMI Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. Carlton has dominated the Power in recent times, winning six of their last seven encounters. In round eight at Etihad Stadium, Jeff Garlett's four goals helped the Blues to an 18-point win.
2.Their recent record has been disappointing, but overall the Power have fared better than Carlton in these contests. In their 24 games against the Blues they've won 13 to 10, with one draw.
3. AAMI Stadium has been kind to Carlton coach Mick Malthouse – he's coached in 28 games at the venue for 15 wins. While leading Collingwood, the Magpies enjoyed 12 wins from 19 games there.
4. The Blues have really struggled to get their hands on the ball this season and are ranked fourth last for total number of possessions. The only sides that have registered fewer disposals are the Brisbane Lions, Greater Western Sydney and Melbourne.
5. But deep in the contest Carlton have proved a powerhouse, ranked third for contested possessions. Port Adelaide on the other hand are ranked 13th in the League.
6. Veteran midfielder Chris Judd (no. 18) is still Carlton's only top 20 player in the Official AFL Player Ratings. Port doesn't have anyone though, with skipper Travis Boak (no. 26) and Chad Wingard (no. 64) their best rated players.
