Carlton coach Michael Voss remains optimistic regarding Adam Cerra’s recent hamstring injury, hoping it’s not severe after the midfielder suffered another setback during the team’s narrow one-point win against Melbourne.
Cerra had been one of Carlton’s standout performers, contributing 21 disposals, 11 contested possessions, and four centre clearances before being forced off during the third quarter at the MCG on Thursday night.
This injury comes just as Cerra had returned for his second game after a three-week absence due to a previous hamstring issue.
“It’s a minor hamstring issue,” Voss explained after the Blues’ 12.5 (77) to 11.10 (76) victory. “We’ll have it scanned to assess the extent of the injury.”
Cerra’s recent setback contributes to Carlton’s ongoing soft-tissue injury concerns this season, with several key players sidelined during the campaign.
Mitch McGovern and Jack Martin returned from hamstring injuries against Melbourne, while Adam Saad and Jesse Motlop remain sidelined with similar issues.
There’s hope for Saad and Motlop to make a comeback this month as Carlton prepares to face ladder leaders Sydney (away), Gold Coast (home), and Port Adelaide (away) in the upcoming weeks.
Despite the challenges, Voss expressed satisfaction with Carlton’s defensive intensity and pressure against Melbourne, seeing it as a crucial factor as the team aims for a top-four position to contend for the premiership.
“Melbourne managed to maintain it for a bit longer throughout the night, but we’ve demonstrated our proficiency in that aspect of the game over the past year,” Voss remarked.
“However, we’re still in the early stages of development in this area, and it emphasizes its importance. Building on this foundation allows us to execute the offensive style we aim for.”
