By Tom Williamson, Williamstown Media
The Gulls controlled the contest from the second term onward, running out 17.15 (117) to 12.7 (79) victors.
Heading into the clash, Williamstown made two key inclusions; Riley Collier-Dawkins returned to the lineup after a late withdrawal last week due to illness, while Vice-Captain Jack Toner was welcomed back from suspension.
The game also marked a significant milestone for defender Luke Parks, who celebrated his 50th VFL game.
The Blues came out firing early and had the better of general play in the opening stages. However, it was Williamstown’s Brodie McLaughlin who made his mark first with a composed 45-metre set shot, continuing his strong goal-kicking form.
Despite dominating inside 50s (16 to 7), the Gulls’ inaccuracy kept the margin tight, with a late goal from Jovan Petric giving them a slender three-point lead at quarter time.
Williamstown sharpened up in the second quarter and asserted their dominance.
Hugo Hall-Kahan set the tone, slotting two early goals within minutes, while McLaughlin’s influence continued to grow. His ability to bring others into the game proved crucial, with Nathan Colenso capitalising for two goals of his own.
The Gulls’ midfield run and pressure began to wear down Carlton as they went into the main break with a 20-point advantage.
The third term saw Williamstown kick away with their superior leg speed and ball use overwhelming the Blues.
The Gulls slammed on two quick goals to stretch the margin beyond five goals, and while Carlton battled hard to stay in touch, the scoreboard pressure proved too much.
Mitch Cox was influential through the middle, collecting a game-high 26 disposals and using the ball effectively.
Statistically, the third quarter highlighted Williamstown’s dominance — they led kicks (124–48), handballs (93–59), and marks (67–44).
McLaughlin added another highlight to his reel, using his soccer skills to dribble through a clever goal from 35 metres out.
Williamstown didn’t let up in the final term, maintaining their intensity and continuing to build on their lead.
McLaughlin capped off a stellar individual performance by finishing with seven goals, putting the result beyond doubt.
In a complete team performance, the Gulls outscored Carlton in every quarter and never allowed the hosts back into the contest, finishing with a comprehensive 38-point win.
Final Score:
WILLIAMSTOWN: 2.5 | 8.7 | 13.9 | 17.15 (117)
CARLTON: 2.2 | 5.5 | 10.5 | 12.7 (79)
Best Players: McLaughlin, Cox, Hall-Kahan, Ebinger, Colenso
Goal Kickers: McLaughlin (7), Colenso (2), Hall-Kahan (2), Ebinger, Gadsby, Hollow, McHale, Ollington, Petric
