In the highest scoring game of the NAB AFLW season so far, Carlton has edged out a fast finishing Western Bulldogs outfit to win by a goal at Ikon Park.

As they became the first side to break the 50-point barrier this year, the Blues proved too strong for the Dogs who were without captain Katie Brennan.

Carlton controlled the majority of the game, but 11 disposals between Emma Kearney and Ellie Blackburn pulled the Bulldogs back into the game late in the final quarter.

Scenes of elation as Carlton claims it's third victory at Ikon Park. (Photo: AFL Media)

Darcy Vescio proved crucial once again, kicking three goals, but it was Bella Ayre with two goals that gave Carlton another option up forward and made the significant difference.

Marquee player Brianna Davey was a late inclusion for Carlton and, after a slow start, finished with 13 second-half disposals and was crucial off half-back.

The win keeps the season alive for the Blues who will need to win their remaining two games and hope the Brisbane Lions go down to Adelaide on Saturday night.

CARLTON  2.2  5.3  7.6  8.6 (54)
WESTERN BULLDOGS  3.1  4.3  4.5  7.6 (48)                  

GOALS
Carlton: Vescio 3, Ayre 2, Moody, Shierlaw, Audley
Western Bulldogs: Blackburn 3, Lambert, Bailey, McDonald, Lochland 

BEST 
Carlton: Vescio, Ayre, Lucas-Rodd, Davey, Hosking
Western Bulldogs: Blackburn, Kearney, Lambert, Callinan, Lochland

INJURIES 
Carlton: Nat Exon (leg)
Western Bulldogs: Nil

Reports: Nil 

Umpires: Andrew Heffernan, Nick Jankovskis, Ryan Guy 

Official crowd: 6,833 at Ikon Park