THE AFL 2022 fixture is here and it’s looking like a big year for the Blues and Blues fans alike.

With the last two years being heavily impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, fans can look forward to a relatively normal fixture again with lots of tough clashes to enjoy around the country.

Here are just some of the key games that Bluebaggers can look forward to in 2022. 

Round 1 v Richmond 

MCG, Thursday 17 March, 7:25pm 

There’s nothing like Round 1 against Richmond. 

Kicking off the season with a home game at the MCG, the Blues will open their season with their traditional-rivalry match against the Tigers. 

The Blues will once again continue their traditional rival against the Tigers with a huge Thursday night home game at the MCG.

This blockbuster will be the first time since 2019 that Carlton will start the season with a home game in front of their members and fans in Victoria. 

Carlton and Richmond have always had a fierce rivalry, resulting in entertaining and thrilling football, with this year shaping up to be just as exciting. 

The Blues will face the Tigers again in Round 14. 

Round 2 v Western Bulldogs

Marvel Stadium, Thursday 24 March, 7:20pm 

Round 1 will be followed by another Thursday night prime-time game against the Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium. 

The Blues will have their work cut out for them as they come up against last year’s Grand Finalist, but it is a challenge they will likely thrive upon. 

It could also be the first time we see Lewis Young taking on his former Club, with the young defender already making his mark in the AFL pre-season at IKON Park. 

Round 6 v Fremantle 

Optus Stadium, Saturday 17 March, 5:40pm 

A Cerra homecoming.

The Blues at Optus Stadium against the Dockers… in white guernseys? 

This game always has Blues fans salivating, with the prospect of another close game against the Dockers looming. 

It could be the first time Adam Cerra lines up against his old side in Fremantle, with the Perth homecoming proving to be a big occasion for a number of players, including Patrick Cripps, Zac Fisher, Jack Martin and Mitch McGovern. 

Carlton has recorded the win over Fremantle in their last four encounters. Can the streak continue in 2022? 

Round 11 v Collingwood  

MCG, Friday 27 May, time TBC

Friday night against the Pies at the ‘G… need we say more? 

This will be the first of two times that Carlton will meet arch-enemies Collingwood at the MCG, with the second time falling in the final round of the 2022 season. 

Carlton and Collingwood have played 260 times, resulting in 128 wins, 128 losses and four draws for each side… who will be the side to tip the ledger first? 

Round 13 v Essendon

MCG, Thursday, Jun 9 to Monday, Jun 13, time TBC

Two grudge matches in a row. Nice. 

With the Blues’ bye falling in Round 12, they will take on the Bombers straight after the Pies, with back-to-back games at the ‘G. 

Carlton have got the better of Essendon the last two times they’ve faced off, as well as winning more matches over a 124-year period. 

With the ‘Dons challenging for finals in 2021, it will be a big test for the Blues as they come up against an impressive Essendon outfit.  

What else to get excited about: 

The first three rounds are being played in Melbourne. 

Interstate games spanning across WA, QLD, SA and NSW. 

Blockbuster clash with Collingwood at the MCG to end the home and away season.

Playing Richmond, Collingwood, GWS, Sydney, Fremantle and Adelaide twice in 2022.

Family friendly Sunday afternoon time-slots.