AGE IS JUST A NUMBER

In an emotional start to the game, both teams joined together to support the LGBTQI+ community within the AFLW and celebrate inclusiveness and diversity wearing specially designed Pride guernseys.

Then, despite a combined age of just 58, Lucy McEvoy, Georgia Gee and Maddy Prespakis played an immense role for the Blue’s victory, proving age truly is just a number.

Lucy McEvoy slotted her first AFLW goal as Georgia Gee picked up crucial points kicking 3 key goals.  Maddy Prespakis was the clear stand out of the match controlling the midfield with 24 disposals and six tackles, covering a huge amount of ground.

All eyes were on Tayla Harris after her week spotlighted in the media having been labelled “useless” and having stood up to further online trolling.

But she put to bed any criticism through her strength and character on the field adding another four marks to her collection.  

Carlton’s youth displayed immense character and expertise, showing the whole AFLW the impact they will have for many years to come.

THE SCORE DOESN’T ALWAYS REFLECT THE MATCH

Despite the 20-point difference, the final score line did not reflect the intensity and pressure the Bulldogs threw Carlton’s way.

The fast-footed Bulldogs were able to make serious ground and space reducing the margin to just nine points in the second half.

Best on ground for the Bulldogs, Kirsty Lamb kept Blue’s fans on the edge of their seats as she looked to upset the Baggers in the final quarter.

The wind was a key factor as both teams capitalised on points when the breeze was in their favour.  

However, with a final quarter surge and faith in their defensive block, Darcy Vescio and Georgia Gee were able to steady the ship up top to cement the victory for the Blues.

EARLY PRESSURE ENSURES EARLY POINTS

Coming off their first loss of the season, the Blue’s came out hungry and firing to ensure early pressure and points on the scoreboard.

In an extraordinarily fast-moving physical battle, the Blues gained early momentum with a 13-point lead within the opening quarter. 

Both teams scrambled well in the midfield displaying elite physicality and work rate across all four quarters.

However, Carlton’s transition from attack to defense could not go unnoticed as an immense amount of pressure swamped the Bulldogs across the whole park. 

An increase in pressure and inside 50s further saw an improvement from last weekend as the Bagger’s worked their way into third position in conference B.

Due to their second loss for the season the Bulldogs drop to fifth position as the competition draws nearer to the halfway point.