Carlton is 3-0 for the first time in a decade after a thrilling encounter with Hawthorn saw the Blues hold on by a point at the MCG.
The Blues got off to a fast start, scoring seven goals to one in the opening term, for their biggest first-quarter score since 2015.
“Alarm bells now, the Carlton forward line is on fire,” commentator David King said for Fox Footy.
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“It’s the new Carlton, you have to appreciate how they’re playing to their strengths. Get the ball in quick, they’ve got three quality talls down there and a plethora of smalls charging on to put pressure on or get the crumb.
“Not mucking around with the ball just getting it in deep.”
Adding to the Hawks’ troubles, defender Jack Scrimshaw was subbed out of the game at quarter time after suffering a nasty shoulder injury.
Carlton’s momentum translated to a 30-point lead at half-time before Hawthorn began its counterattack by preventing the Blues’ midfield from transitioning the ball.
Storming home, the Hawks booted six consecutive goals before a major from veteran forward Jack Gunston, nine minutes into the final quarter, put them in front.
“Back to the ’80s with the Hawks and Blues putting on a show,” commentator Anthony Hudson said.
Three-goal bags from star forwards Charlie Curnow and Jack Silvagni rescued Carlton’s afternoon, Silvagni’s third regaining the lead late before a rushed behind cinched the match.
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