Carlton’s season hit a new low on Saturday as they slumped to a stunning 11-point loss to North Melbourne at the MCG, leaving fans furious and coach Michael Voss under immense pressure.
In one of the biggest upsets of the season, the young and rebuilding Kangaroos stormed to a 13.6 (84) to 10.13 (73) victory, silencing the Carlton faithful. Despite the Blues starting as strong favourites, they were completely outworked in the middle quarters, conceding 12 goals to a side that entered the match with just one win for the year.
The intensity and physicality of North’s midfield—led by skipper Jy Simpkin—proved too much. One moment, a bone-rattling tackle on George Hewett, summed up the Roos’ intent. Meanwhile, Carlton’s response was muted, characterised by passive, sideways ball movement and a glaring lack of urgency.
The frustration spilled over to the crowd, with loud boos echoing at halftime and three-quarter time. Footage of a young Carlton fan in tears during a goal review became a painful symbol of the evening. Talkback radio lines lit up post-match, with callers branding the performance “gutless” and “a train wreck.” One fan, “Eddie, 57,” didn’t hold back: “They don’t care. It’s time for a change.”
Critics including Jonathan Brown and Gerard Healy joined the pile-on, describing the Blues as “bullied” and saying Voss “needs a miracle” to survive the growing unrest.
Carlton now face a crucial clash against Port Adelaide, while North Melbourne will look to build on what could be a season-defining win. For Voss and the Blues, the margin on the scoreboard may have been 11 points—but the fallout could prove far wider.
