CARLTON will play its second consecutive game at IKON Park this Sunday against the ladder-leading Essendon.

The Bombers have vanquished their opponents so far, having scored 177 points while only conceding 16 in their two matches combined.

Carlton will also have some confidence heading into the clash however, with the side claiming a gutsy eight-point win over the Southern Saints last week.

For Carlton, the team will remain relatively unchanged, with only Poppy Schaap heading to Canberra as a travelling emergency for the senior side: a reward for her solid form last weekend. 

Replacing her will be Teresa Zampaglione, who will look to capitalise on her opportunity in the forward line after being named as an emergency in Round 1. 

Brooke Vernon, Annie Lee and Charlotte Wilson will need to rise to the occasion on Sunday, looking to limit Essendon’s forwards from having too large an impact on the contest as they lead the Blues backline.

Brooke Walker, Charlotte Hammans and Imogen Milford remain in the side and are hoping to continue their efficient work from last week, while Lauren Brazzale will want to capture her best moments from last week and display it in a four-quarter performance in midfield.

Nadia Moore will also return to the side, having played an impressive game for the Blues in Round 1 against Geelong. 

Benjamin Hann is a student at La Trobe University, undergoing his Bachelor of Media and Communications (Sports Journalism). He is currently undertaking an internship at the Carlton Football Club as part of its partnership with La Trobe University.