Carlton fans have been left heartbroken by the club’s ‘sad’ decision to announce the retirement of Lachie Plowman.
The bitter turn of events was described as “an indictment of our supporters”. 4,444 Carlton fans rallied around Lachie Plowman after the former No. 3 draft pick announced his retirement from the AFL.
The 29-year-old began his career at GWS, making 20 appearances for the expansion side before becoming one of a number of Giants to move to the Blues ahead of the 2016 season.
The defender played almost every matches in the first two for many years, but his best campaign came in 2019 when he finished third in the best and fairest.
Analysis, local football and the biggest moments, Seven and 7plus host football shows for all fans. Stream them all for free on 7plus >>
Standing at 191 cm, Plowman was tasked with facing a variety of opponents during his career, often being one of the best small forwards tournament and remained a regular on the team until this year.
But he has become the focus of criticism from some Blues fans as the team’s finals drought continues.
Carlton chose to block comments on the club’s social media posts announcing Plowman’s retirement, prompting a new wave of support.
“Sad they had to turn off comments,” writes Blues fan podcast The PrenderCast.
“Wonderful servant of the football club. And contrary to what some people think, we played some beautiful football.
One fan said:
“I’m so sad they had to turn off comments. I love you Lachie.
Another wrote:
“Accusation against our supporters, comments have been disabled. There is no doubt that he gives his all every time he puts on the navy blue shirt. Forever grateful.”
He said:
“Sad to see the comments disappear because we know what some people will say. A great club member. Go well.”
One noted:
“Being a defender for a team during a rebuild can’t be easy but this guy did it for so long. Plow, thank you and good luck in the future.”
Plowman racked up 125 AFL games in the No.20 jumper for Carlton, his last in Round 5 being his only appearance in 2023.
He played 19 games for the Blues’ VFL side this year.
“I could not have asked for much more than to have been part of the AFL for such a significant period of my life,” Plowman said.
“The club has been the best environment to come to work every day, the challenging moments, the winning ones, I would not change them for the world.
“Thank you to all my coaches, teammates and everyone at the Blues for their belief in me, and their support.
“Thank you also to my family and partner, who were with me every step along the way. One of my favourite parts of my career is having the opportunity to share it all with you.”
Blues manager Michael Voss paid tribute to Plowman in a club statement.
“You would be hard pressed to find a kinder, more caring person than Lachie,” he said.
“The energy he brought within our four walls is greatly appreciated and will be missed.
“Arguably the greatest compliment that can be paid to Lachie as a player is the reliability and trust he has in his teammates, which he has built and earn over a long period of time.
“He leaves our club with only our best wishes and profound gratitude, for the service he provided in the Navy.”
About The Author
Leave a Reply