Carlton coach Josh Fraser has put the spotlight on some of his side's unheralded players after the Blues' terrific 37-point victory over minor premiers Fremantle on Saturday.
Ruck Marc Pittonet (17 disposals and 20 hitouts) played his 100th game against the Dockers and more than held his own against star Luke Jackson.
Fraser gave credit to Pittonet's impact in the match and on the group in 2026.
"(Pittonet) was outstanding, and he has been such a strong contributor for us over the course of the season," Fraser said in the post-game press conference.
"Great competitor. The boys love playing with him; he's quite reliable and durable. He's a great character around the group, so 100 games for 'Pitto' is worth acknowledging. We did that pre-game, and the boys were quite excited to be part of that milestone for him."
The Blues have had a remarkable turnaround in form since Fraser took over the reins from Michael Voss mid-year.
Carlton has gone 11-1-2 in that time and now looms as a scary proposition in the finals.
Fraser said that while the stars have lifted, credit should go to the unsung heroes of the side.
"Talor Byrne, as an example, not huge possessions particularly in the first half, but gee, he had some really important moments for us," he said.
"Ollie Hollands comes into the team and has an amazing run-down tackle in the goal square.
"In terms of loving players to coach, (Frank Evans who kicked five goals) is one of those guys, because again, he is so reliable.
"He will do what needs to be done for the team and then gets reward like he did for today. He is just a great teammate for the players, and he applies great pressure.
"It was nice to see him get some reward."
Carlton could play against arch-rivals Collingwood in the Wildcard Round next weekend.
Fraser said a pair of key players, Will Hayward and Nick Haynes have a chance to return from injury for the Blues.
"Hopefully," he said.
"Clearly, some work in front of those guys before selection. But Haynes and Hayward are tracking the right way."
