Brendon Bolton says execution is Carlton’s biggest growth area after loss to Bulldogs

BRENDON Bolton says his Carlton players must improve their skill execution under pressure to take the next step in the club’s development.

Carlton coach Brendon Bolton. Picture: Michael Klein

BRENDON Bolton says his Carlton players must improve their skill execution under pressure to take the next step in the club’s development.

With injuries mounting, Bolton said his Blues were scrappy in the 20-point loss to Western Bulldogs at the MCG, which leaves them third-last on the ladder.

Defenders Alex Silvagni (knee), Dylan Buckley (hamstring) and Ciaran Byrne (groin) all suffered injuries and are in doubt for next weekend’s clash against Brisbane, along with veteran Dale Thomas (calf) who was a late withdrawal.

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Bolton said the Blues would continue to fight out the rest of the season as strongly as they could despite being out of the finals mix, and look to improve their finishing skills over the remaining six games.

“Our character is pretty strong, we don’t need to question that,” Bolton said.

“They’ve played with some real spirit and effort for most of the year, I’ve said a number of times we’ve been right in the game.

Marc Murphy leads Carlton off after losing to the Bulldogs.

“I think we give the effort stuff, we play a pretty strong system by and large that holds up. It’s a bit of detail (that’s next).

“The craft and the mastery - just being able to execute what’s required in tight situations.

“That’s the next layer and our players are fully aware of it. They will be determined to show growth in that area.”

Bolton said he was pleased with All-Australian ruck contender Matthew Kreuzer and re-signed full-back Liam Jones as well as the team’s first and last quarters.

He said the next two months would provide a chance to assess the depth on Carlton’s list ahead of another important trade and draft period.

The senior coach said the team’s youthfulness was a factor in its skill mistakes.

Kade Simpson and Charlie Curnow after the loss to the Bulldogs.

“Particularly errors forward of centre and decision-making when we missed some opportunities to hit the scoreboard,” he said.

“A lot comes with time playing at the level. We’ve probably got a few who haven’t played a lot of AFL this year.

“Injuries are at double figures and that’s a great opportunity to build our depth.

“It’s also a great opportunity to view our depth, look at more players and assess their game on the way.

“Sometimes that improves the more you play at the level, you settle into it.”