Blues defender thrives in first game of footy in 12 months

Carlton defender Caleb Marchbank has not only survived, but thrived in his first game of footy in 12 months.

The 25-year-old has not played at AFL level since 2019, with serious back and neck injuries compounded by a torn ACL in his first game of VFL in 2021.

Looking strong and ready to go, Marchbank picked up 16 disposals in the first half, the equal most of anyone on the ground.

His intercept marking and ball-use were impressive, particularly in swirling wind and rain at Skybus Stadium.

Marchbank appeared to play without much of a minutes restriction in the first three quarters, but he sat out the fourth term.

It was a positive for the Blues in what ended up being a sour night. They led by as much as 48 points before conceding 10 straight to bottle the result, going down to Frankston.

The score at three-quarter-time red 11.7 to 3.7, with the Dolphins kicking 10 goals to one in the final term to stun Carlton.

Paddy Dow and Lachie Fogarty found plenty of the footy, while Alex Mirkov won the ruck battle.

Top draft pick Jesse Motlop continued to show his class, making the most of his touches with excellent ball-use despite the conditions. He would be knocking on the door of a senior debut.

For Frankston, Will Fordham led the way with three goals, while Josh Begley kicked two.

Matthew Cottrell did not play for the Blues, likely meaning he will be the substitute when they face Adelaide on Sunday afternoon. Will Setterfield also sat out the second half.