THE BLUES fell to an impressive Pies outfit yesterday in their Round 1 clash. 

Carlton's work in the contest kept the hosts in the game, but the opposition's ability to get the ball on the outside and capitalise on the Blues' unsuccessful forward entries was the difference.

That contested work for the Blues was reflected in the AFL Coaches' Association votes, featuring two Game Changers who had impressive personal outings.

Breann Moody was arguably the best on ground for the Game Changers, totalling 25 hitouts and six contested possessions. 

Coming up against former teammate Alison Downie, Moody's performance earned her five coaches votes, with the ruck picking up from where she left off following her All-Australian season in 2021.

The buck started with Moody in the air and quickly got passed down to Maddy Prespakis, who earned one vote for her bullish midfield performance. 

Gathering 16 disposals and 10 contested possessions, Prespakis battled it out in the contest alongside Abbie McKay, who both felt the pressure of Grace Egan's absence (ribs). 

Delivering seven inside 50s, Prespakis was a constant presence in the middle, attempting to get the Sherrin going her team's way and get back in the game on the scoreboard.