Carlton AFLW coach Damien Keeping has lamented his side’s slow start in Perth, with Fremantle recording its maiden victory by 16 points at Domain Stadium on Friday.

The Dockers kicked the first three goals of the game while the Blues went goalless, ensuring a tough night for the visitors from the familiar surroundings of Royal Parade.

“We missed opportunities early and chasing Fremantle all day away from home was really tough for us,” Keeping said.

“We’re disappointed with the result tonight and other results going our way or not, we’ll continue to focus on growing and improving as a group with another game to play next weekend.

“Full credit to Fremantle, they were very impressive right across the ground and they deserved to win.

“Our work rate was quite good but Fremantle’s pressure and their effectiveness in hitting the scoreboard was the difference.”

Despite the loss, Keeping said the Blues will now turn their attention to Round 7 against the in-form Brisbane Lions.

“Our attention turns to Brisbane at Ikon Park next Sunday and we’re determined to finish the season strongly. As far as a grand final berth goes, that's really out of our control so we’ll focus on what will hopefully be a win against Brisbane," he said.

Keeping spoke highly of injured defender Danielle Hardiman, highlighting her consistency across half-back throughout the season.

“We don’t know the severity of the ankle injury to Danielle Hardiman. She’s a really important player for us so we’ll get it scanned early in the week and hope for the best.

“She’s had an exceptional season but at this stage she’s more unlikely to play at this stage. However, she can look back and be very proud of how she’s performed across the season.”

Carlton will host the undefeated Brisbane Lions in Round 7 of the NAB AFL Women’s League at 3.05pm EST next Sunday, 19 March, with the game to be broadcast live on FOX Footy.