AFL round four 2026, scores, results, odds, stats and start time from Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Good Friday
While Larkey admits North is “as aware as anyone” of the Blues’ form, he is adamant Kangaroos coach Alastair Clarkson will not use that in his planning.
“Every week you prepare for the club’s best rather than what they probably wish they had done differently,” Larkey said.
“You see what they can do when they get up and go.
“They can get a 40 or 50 point lead in a very short period of time, and we’ve had our own momentum problems over the last few years.
“So whenever you prepare for a club, you prepare for their best and that’s what we’ll do against Carlton.”
The North is without suspended star Tristan Xerri and will leave it to Callum Coleman-Jones to take on Carlton’s physical big man Marc Pittonet.
There is plenty in the game for both clubs as the Kangaroos look to improve their dreadful 1-8 win-loss record in their marquee fixtures.
Players from both clubs visited the Royal Children’s Hospital during the build-up and some of the proceeds from the match were donated to the Good Friday Appeal.
“After that you get grounded and hopefully you can make a difference in kids’ days, weeks or years,” Larkey said.
“That’s what it’s all about and we’re lucky to be involved.
“It’s probably our biggest game crowd-wise, so it’s really exciting to play the game itself.
“We haven’t been able to perform at our best in previous years, but we hope to rectify that.”
North, who have been in the bottom three of the rankings for six years, have made a positive start to 2026 and would be unbeaten if not for a five-goal lead over the other West Coast minnows.
Larkey has shined offensively, allowing 12.2 strikeouts in 20 innings in his first three games since being appointed captain as Jy Simpkin’s successor.
“It’s nice to get the job done. The kids are working hard to get the ball there and I really feel the responsibility of being able to finish it,” the 27-year-old said.
“I pride myself on hitting straight and I’ve been able to do that so far.
“But we’ve had a little bit better ball movement this year, which has helped us as a forward and hopefully I can continue to take direct shots for the team as the year progresses.”
AAP
