AFL 2025 LIVE updates: Blues hold half-time edge over Cats in MCG blockbuster as both sides hit by injury

Carlton’s forward pressure was the story of the quarter as they worried Geelong’s defenders into coughing up the ball.

The Blues are dominating ground balls inside 50 and deserve their 21-point lead. If not for Lawson Humphries and Connor O’Sullivan, the lead would be even greater.

Jeremy Cameron had been making more mistakes than the umpires until he kicked a goal late in the quarter, which may give him some confidence.

Shaun Mannagh has been Geelong’s best stoppage player, but the Blues are on top with Sam Walsh (20 disposals) and George Hewett (16) beating the Cats. Bailey Smith has been reasonable but Max Holmes’ usual drive has been missing.

Patrick Dangerfield into the middle is the obvious consideration at half-time.

Carlton 8.5 (53) lead Geelong 5.4 (34) at HT.