AFL Round 12 Preview: Carlton Blues vs. Geelong Cats
The match kicks off at 7:40 PM AEST from the MCG, broadcast live on Fox Footy (channel 504) and Kayo from 6:30 PM AEST.
Team News
Carlton
The Blues welcome back key defenders Jacob Weitering (calf) and Blake Acres (first game of 2026). However, they will be without Wade Derksen (omitted) and Matt Carroll (knee). The team is currently under interim coach Josh Fraser, who holds a perfect 2-0 record.
Geelong
The Cats regain midfielder Tanner Bruhn after a rest, but have managed Jack Martin out of the lineup.
Recent Form
Carlton has won its last two games under Fraser. In their most recent match, they recorded their highest season score while holding their opponent to their lowest.
Geelong has won its last four games, scoring over 100 points in each. During this streak, they have averaged 120 points per game and have beaten the two teams above them on the ladder as well as the reigning premiers. Their most recent loss came against Port Adelaide.
Head-to-Head
Despite Geelong’s strong form, Carlton has won three of the last four meetings between the two sides since 2023.