Carlton Blues Suffer Blow as Jagga Smith Tears ACL in Preseason Match
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The Carlton Blues have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the upcoming AFL season, with third overall pick Jagga Smith suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in a preseason match against St Kilda. The 19-year-old limped off the field during the third quarter and subsequent scans confirmed the worst possible result, ruling him out for the entire season. This is a devastating setback for the Blues, who were expecting big things from their young star.
Carlton football manager Brad Lloyd expressed his disappointment at the news, stating that it was not the news they were expecting and that they really feel for Jagga. However, Lloyd also praised Smith's professionalism and dedication, saying that these qualities will help him progress through every stage of his rehab. The Blues will now have to regroup and adjust their plans for the season, with Smith's absence likely to be felt across the team. The team's first-round draft pick was expected to play a key role in the team's attack, and his loss will be deeply felt.
The Blues' preseason campaign has been marred by injuries, with Smith's setback coming on the back of a serious knee injury to defender Nic Newman. The team is also waiting on the fitness of star midfielder Sam Walsh, who is recovering from a hamstring injury, and first overall pick Sam Lalor, who is racing the clock to be fit after breaking his jaw. Despite these setbacks, the Blues remain optimistic about their chances this season, with Lloyd saying that Smith will continue to soak up as much knowledge as he can from his teammates and coaches during his first year in the AFL system. The team's home-and-away campaign kicks off on March 13 against Richmond, and they will be looking to make a strong start to the season.
In other news, St Kilda's Irish winger Liam O'Connell has bolted into contention for the team's round one side after an impressive performance in the team's preseason scratch match victory over Carlton. O'Connell kicked two goals and looked natural on the wing, and could be in line for a spot in Ross Lyon's plans ahead of the club's season-opener against Adelaide. The Saints' new-look midfield group, which includes Hugo Garcia and Hugh Boxshall, also impressed in the match, and the team will be looking to build on this performance as they head into the season. The match scores were:
- Carlton: 8.10 (58)
- St Kilda: 10.9 (69)
- Carlton: Motlop 3, McKay 2, De Koning, Cerra, L. Camporeale
- St Kilda: O'Connell 2, Butler 2, Sharman, Boxshall, Higgins, Hall, Caminiti, Travaglia
The Blues will be looking to bounce back from this setback and make a strong start to the season. With a number of key players still on the sidelines, the team will need to dig deep and find a way to overcome their injuries if they are to succeed. The AFL season is always full of surprises, and the Blues will be hoping to make a few of their own as they look to make a push for the finals. The team's preseason campaign has been marked by injuries, but they will be looking to put this behind them and focus on the season ahead. With a number of young players looking to make their mark, the Blues will be an interesting team to watch this season, and they will be looking to make a statement in their first match against Richmond.
jagga carlton acl smith preseason richmond afl blu sam suffer
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