Sam Docherty‘s farewell did not end in the way he would have liked as Carlton were left scrambling for answers in a 24-point loss to Hawthorn.
Docherty confirmed earlier in the week that Thursday’s clash would be his last before hanging up the boots following what has been a remarkable 184-game career.
While the result was not in Carlton’s favour, going down 13.7 (85) – 9.7 (61) at the MCG, Docherty did find a brief moment to shine.
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Late in the third term, the 31-year-old slotted a goal, before running towards the crowd to ‘bow out’ in a classy display for all watching on.
Sam Docherty of the Blues bows to the crowd. AFL Photos via Getty Images
His celebrations were followed by an embrace with his teammates as the MCG crowd united to give Docherty a standing ovation for his efforts.
“Thanks for the memories, you mighty Blue,” Mark Howard called on Fox Footy.
However, his goal-scoring efforts were not enough to change the shift the scoreboard.
The Hawks continued to cause havoc in the fourth term, despite the late departure of Jarman Impey with what appeared to be a lower leg concern.
Docherty was not the only Blue being celebrated on Thursday, with the club’s vice-captain Jacob Weitering taking to the field for his 200th game.
Jacob Weitering and Sam Docherty are chaired off the ground. Getty
A troubling start to his milestone match was made worse early in the second term as Weitering was forced from the field after copping an elbow to the head.
Weitering was attempting to clear the ball when he was tackled by Hawk Mitch Lewis.
He managed to clear the ball with his boot as he was spun to the ground, although on his way down he was struck in the head by teammate Adam Saad.
“He tackled with such ferocity on Weitering, he can’t get to his feet,” David King said.
“It was a rib breaker. He’s just looking for oxygen at this stage.”
A replay of the incident seemingly cleared Lewis, according to league greats, of any foul play. However, Weitering required assistance from trainers to leave the field for his HIA.
Hawthorn managed to extend their lead further in Weitering’s absence as the Blues managed to slot just one goal via Charlie Curnow.
With two minutes to go, Weitering was cleared to return to the field.
Yet his return was not enough to swing momentum back in the Blues’ favour.
“It’s disappointing, especially for a person like Sam Docherty in his last game,” Blues great Eddie Betts said of the club’s performance at half time.
“They have to bring effort.”
Kade Simpson joined Patrick Cripps to chair Docherty off the field.
