Hawks Defeat Carlton, Spoil Sam Docherty Farewell at MCG

The Hawthorn Hawks defeated the Carlton Blues 85 to 61 in a match that marked the farewell of Carlton champion Sam Docherty, who played his 184th and final game despite his inspiring comeback from three knee reconstructions and testicular cancer. Hawthorn started strong with eight of the first nine goals and maintained control throughout, denying Carlton any chance of a fairytale ending for Docherty. Despite Carlton's efforts, including celebrating Jacob Weitering's 200th game, the Blues appeared listless and disorganized, struggling to capitalize on more inside 50s and conceding goals on 70% of Hawthorn's entries. Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell acknowledged their role as 'villains' aiming to spoil the farewell but praised Docherty's inspirational career. The Hawks, sitting comfortably in fifth place, are focused on securing a top-eight spot as they face a tough run of fixtures ahead. Carlton, sitting twelfth, has a lot to play for despite their low ladder position, with pressure lingering on coach Michael Voss and key players amid ongoing uncertainty.