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Coach Bolton feels safe with Carlton

3 minute read

Blues coach Brendon Bolton is expecting a strong response from his struggling AFL side against St Kilda and says he feels supported in his role.

Blues coach BRENDON BOLTON looks on during a Carlton Blues AFL Media Opportunity at Highgate Reserve in Melbourne, Australia.
Blues coach BRENDON BOLTON looks on during a Carlton Blues AFL Media Opportunity at Highgate Reserve in Melbourne, Australia. Picture: Scott Barbour/Getty Images

Under-siege Carlton coach Brendon Bolton says the support from club president Mark LoGiudice has been unwavering despite the Blues winning just one AFL match this season.

On Sunday Carlton take on St Kilda, who are also struggling, with talk another heavy loss could spell the end of his tenure at the former powerhouse club.

But LoGiudice declared Bolton would not be sacked mid-season despite his record of just four wins from their last 41 games.

Bolton said he appreciated the public statement but already felt secure in his role.

"Publicly he made a statement which I really do support, but I think what not many know around our president is his support has been unwavering," Bolton said on Friday.

"Not just of me but right through the footy department.

"I know he's not a guy that's in the media a lot, but gee he's hands on around the footy club.

"I really appreciate the public display of support but he doesn't really need to do that for me too often because the support's been real of what people don't see."

Carlton held a player-only meeting following their dire showing against GWS, with their lack of response to Shane Mumford's big hit on veteran midfielder Marc Murphy addressed.

Only Blues co-captain Patrick Cripps remonstrated with Mumford after he collected Murphy, who will be out for a few weeks with fractured ribs.

Bolton said the players had spoken of the incident.

"I think it was, particularly from 'Crippa' ... he responded the right way," Bolton said.

"'Mummy (Mumford) plays a physical brand and we've respected him for a long time but I think it's important to fly the flag when someone gets hurt."

Bolton expected the Blues to fire up against the Saints.

"We're really looking forward to it," he said.

"We have a group that is strong in character so they're determined to bounce back.

"We'd expect a response and I'm pretty confident we'll get one in terms of effort and compliance to structures and things like that."

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