Match recap: Carlton dominates AFLW elimination final at Princes Park
Under heavy skies and in chilly, wet conditions at Princes Park, Carlton surged to a commanding 41-point victory in the AFLW elimination final against West Coast. The Blues led from minute one and never relinquished the initiative, sealing a 9-goal performance to advance in the finals series. The result keeps Carlton on track for a deep run in the season, while West Coast’s campaign ends for now, left to reflect on the tough day in difficult weather.
McKay’s scintillating third-quarter burst fuels Carlton
The most memorable moment of the afternoon arrived when star rookie Sophie McKay exploded in the third term. With the game finely poised after a physical first half, McKay’s pace, precision and pressure turned the tide decisively. She kicked two crucial goals and laid the groundwork for a blitz that pushed Carlton clear of the Eagles. The burst epitomised Carlton’s readiness to strike when momentum swung in their direction and underscored McKay’s growing influence in the club’s young core.
Why the third quarter mattered
Entering the final stretch of the third term, Carlton held a slender advantage. McKay’s intervention transformed the flow, and the Blues converted at a higher rate, stretching their lead at a time when fatigue can set in. The burst was underpinned by clean ball movement, disciplined defending, and a willingness to take risks in transition. By the time the quarter ended, Carlton had executed a sequence of possessions that drained West Coast and built confidence for the final stanza.
Team performance: balance across the line
Carlton’s win was a team effort across quarters, with contributions from multiple players on the scoreboard and in the contest. The Blues showcased a balanced attack, efficient disposal, and a willingness to lock the ball inside their forward half. The defensive unit held firm in waves, repelling West Coast entries and forcing acts of ball pressure that disrupted the Eagles’ rhythm. The weather conditions tested both sides, yet Carlton remained composed, using the corridor and overlapping runs to maintain control of the tempo.
Key stats and turning points
Statistical leaders for Carlton included a mix of veterans and youngsters providing consistent pressure and reliability under pressure. West Coast battled hard but couldn’t sustain a scoring run long enough to match Carlton’s momentum. The home-ground familiarity at Princes Park gave Carlton an edge in decision-making and support play, helping them convert pressure into scoreboard impact and maintain momentum through the final siren.
What this means moving forward
Advancing in the AFLW finals, Carlton now carries confidence from a comprehensive win in tricky weather and against a determined opponent. The performance highlighted the team’s depth, with more players stepping up to contribute as the season progresses. For West Coast, the elimination exit is a moment to regroup, analyze where the balance of forward pressure and defensive structure can be improved, and prepare for the next campaign with lessons learned from a tight, physical contest at Princes Park.
Looking ahead
With the pressure of finals football behind them for now, Carlton can focus on building continuity and sharpening decision-making under adverse conditions. The club’s young stars, led by McKay, will be central to any postseason push, while veterans provide steadiness and leadership. For supporters, the performance offered a glimpse of a Blues side capable of playing with purpose in high-stakes games, setting up intriguing fixtures as the AFLW season advances.
