Carlton Football Club has made a significant impression in the AFL Women’s (AFLW) competition, emerging as a genuine contender for the top four. After a disappointing performance in the previous season, where they finished fourteenth with just four wins, the Blues have turned their fortunes around with a more dynamic and cohesive style of play.
In their season opener, Carlton was expected to secure victory against Collingwood, and they did so convincingly. They followed this performance by challenging 2024 preliminary finalists, Hawthorn, until the final moments in difficult conditions at Frankston. The Blues’ momentum continued as they defeated the Brisbane Lions, a formidable opponent and 2024 grand finalist, showcasing their growth and resilience.
With the team currently sitting fifth on the ladder as round eight approaches, Carlton has developed the necessary personnel to execute the strategies of coach Mathew Buck, who has been at the helm since 2023. A significant aspect of their transformation has been the improvement in their defensive capabilities.
Defensive Strengths and Tactical Adjustments
Carlton’s defense has tightened considerably this season, conceding an average of two goals fewer per match compared to last year. Interestingly, the Blues are allowing more inside 50s but have significantly enhanced their stopping ability. This season, they are rebounding 84.2 percent of opponents’ forward entries, a rise from 78.7 percent in 2023.
At the heart of this defensive unit is Harriet Cordner, who is having a career-best season following her selection in the All-Australian squad last year. Cordner’s expertise in stopping and intercepting plays, combined with her ability to initiate rebounds, has been vital. She is well-supported by Ciara Fitzgerald and Maddie Hendrie, who have taken on specific roles to neutralize the opposition’s key forwards.
The Blues have also adjusted their approach to one-on-one contests, relying less on sheer numbers in defense. This has allowed them to regain possession and transition more effectively, breaking free from a cycle of defending deeply and struggling to move the ball forward.
Dynamic Offense and Scoring Potential
Carlton has also improved offensively, averaging three more goals per game than in the previous season. Their leading goal-kickers, Tara Bohanna and Sophie McKay, both new to the club this year, have each scored eight goals within the opening seven rounds. The increase in offensive productivity is evident, as the team now boasts an average of 4.7 goalkickers per game, up from just three last season.
The combination of a strong defensive strategy and an effective offense has made Carlton a formidable opponent. The contributions of first-year defender Poppy Scholz, along with the speed and agility of wingers like Dayna Finn and half-forward Erone Fitzpatrick, have been critical in the team’s transition game. Finn, in particular, has emerged as one of the league’s most improved players this season, while Fitzpatrick has made a successful return from an ACL injury.
As Carlton continues to build on these strengths, they have transformed into a team that is not only competitive but also entertaining to watch. The blend of solid defensive play, efficient transitions, and an increasingly potent attack has positioned them as a side to watch in the ongoing AFLW season. With their sights set on a place in the finals, the Blues are proving that they can be a force in the league once again.
