Jarrad Waite on verge of AFL return for Carlton Blues Jarrad Waite is closing in on an AFL comeback for Carlton. Picture: Wayne Ludbey JARRAD Waite took a promising step forward towards resuming his post as Carlton's key forward after a solid comeback in the VFL yesterday. Waite, while kicking only two behinds, presented strongly and tackled well as Northern Blues lost to Port Melbourne 16.11 (107) to 13.13 (91) at Preston City Oval. The 30-year-old made his delayed return to football after suffering a calf injury in the pre-season. Waite finished with 12 disposals, including six marks and four tackles. Northern Blues coach Luke Webster said it was pleasing to see the 194cm forward emerge unscathed. (Waite) was OK. It's a tough one coming back, he's been out for a while and I thought he presented pretty well," Webster said. We probably didn't kick it to him on a couple of times when we should've used him but it's one back for him. It's a good one for him to tick off and he steps forward for next week. I think he should take some confidence out of (his performance). . .when he was in the area he competed well. Waite, who has not played more than 12 senior AFL games in three of his past four seasons, took a gliding contested mark on the wing 20 minutes into the first quarter to the delight of the Carlton faithful. Webster said he expected Waite's influence to increase but he was unsure how long the forward would be playing in the VFL side. "I don't know what (Carlton) have got planned for him but my point of view is that (it was) a good performance for him to get through today, and then we look to up his game time, whether that's with us next week or with Carlton," Webster said. The Blues were buoyed by a superb performance from Carlton-listed youngster Tom Bell, who finished with 23 disposals and three goals. Bell, 21, was one of his side's best and received high praise from Webster. David Ellard was again solid, amassing 20 touches, while Jaryd Cachia (20 disposals) and Dylan Buckley (16 disposals, two goals) were also handy.