Round 18, 1948
Carlton vs Melbourne
Saturday 28 August
Venue: Princes Park
Attendance: 27,000
| 1st | 2nd | 3rd | Final | |
| Carlton | 4.2 | 8.7 | 10.11 | 13.14.92 |
| Melbourne | 3.3 | 7.4 | 9.9 | 15.11.101 |
Melbourne win by 9 points
Goalkickers: Bob McKenzie 7, Norm Smith 4, Lance Arnold 1, Eddie Craddock 1, Len Dockett 1, Eric Roscoe 1
Milestones:
First game
Alan McGowan
Last MFC game
Ernie O'Rourke
The Demons only had to avoid losing both their remaining games to be assured of a a spot in the finals, but they found themselves with a good chance of the double chance if they could win both matches.
They well, profiting from poor passing by Carlton to kick the opening goal through Dockett. They kicked the second as well before their defence lapsed and allowed the Blues to boot three goals in a row and grab the lead at quarter time.
Melbourne's attack broke down badly during the second quarter, but against the run of play managed to get back in front before conceding late goals and a nine point margin at the break. They were eight points behind going into the last quarter before Bob McKenzie erupted. With Norm Smith playing his familiar role as provider, McKenzie kicked five goals - including three in time on - as the Demons held on for a season defining victory.
Best were Spittle, McKenzie and Dockett. McGowan replaced Rule in the last quarter, O'Rourke was an unused 19th man.
Seconds
Melbourne 11.14 d. Carlton 9.7
Notes
Herald gives the crowd as 24,000
Media
Age - 28/08/1948
Sporting Globe - 28/08/1948
Herald - 28/08/1948
Football Record R19 1948