Bob Murphy spent most of the 2020 season frustrated by Melbourne, believing in the talent they were putting out on the field despite their lack of results.
This year, the former Bulldogs captain put his chips in on Carlton and has backed them week after week, despite their 2-4 start.
When his love for the Dees last year was brought up on SEN’s Bob and Andy, Murphy felt there was a fair comparison between Melbourne last year and the Blues this year.
“(The enthusiasm for Carlton) is waning, but I see a good team in there,” he said.
“I see the bits and go, 'so what’s happening?' Melbourne has shown this year that they’ve got it to click.
“Remember last year we said Melbourne couldn’t kick? They’ve got the same players (this year) guys.
“Have they made it click by freeing up? Has Simon Goodwin pulled back some of the detail in the coaching? It can’t just be training and having kicks. That’s not it.
“I realise (Mark Williams is a kicking guru), but this is between the ears and now they are a good team.
“And Carlton I see the bones of a good team. You barrack for them and watch closely and then when it’s not gelling you become a bit like a supporter and go: 'why?'”
Like Melbourne previously, Carlton suffers from ball-use issues, conceding goals from turnovers at an alarming rate.
Despite that, they have the talent across the field to give fans hope.
Could Murphy be 12 months early on another contender? Time will tell.
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