CARLTON suffered a 48-point defeat against Richmond in chilly conditions at Ikon Park.

While the Blues’ pressure and tackling intensity was promising, the Tigers’ ball movement proved to be too damaging, as they kicked away throughout the game.

The Blues’ were on the backfoot early with AFLW-listed players Jess Hosking and Georgia Gee late outs for the match. However, this presented an opportunity for a number of the Blues’ youngsters to mix it with some of the best.

Quarter-by-quarter breakdown:

Q1:

Carlton played some of its best football early on in the game, applying unrelenting pressure to the opposition, and holding them goalless for the entire quarter. Gab Pound’s return to the team was important, as she took multiple marks in defence and helping the Blues clear their defensive 50.  Katie Loynes also worked hard throughout the term, demonstrating her great tackling as well as supplying pivotal run and carry. Sarah Wright’s agility was brilliant, and her contest work was vital in helping keep the Blues in the game.

Q2:

Carlton’s intensity dropped in the second term, letting Richmond score four goals. Sarah Wright was again able to have an impact late, scoring a goal in the dying stages of the term to give the Blues a chance heading into the main break. At the other end of the ground, it was twin sister Gemma who was most impressive, doing her best to keep the Tigers’ tall forwards at bay. Sidney Cubasch presented well up the ground to complement her aggressive tackling.

Bry Gurr was at her best before a fourth quarter injury (Photo: Carlton Media) 

Q3:

Richmond continued to kick away in the third quarter, holding the Blues scoreless in the process. Jaime Nelson competed hard in the ruck while Loynes continued to impress with her aggression around the contest. Young Blue Bry Gurr spent time in the midfield for the first time this season, working hard in tough conditions and against a more mature opposition. In defence, it was Mia-Rae Clifford leading the way, working hard in combination with the other Blues to try and stem the flow of Tigers’ goals.

Q4:

The Blues were dealt another blow in the fourth quarter when both Lauren Munday and Bry Gurr went down with injuries. While Gurr was able to make a return to the field, the intensity and increased pressure of the game meant she was not able have as great an impact. The Blues were able to gain slight asecendency in the final term, as goals to  Lauren Brazzale and Abbie McKay helping to  reduce the margin. Brazzale’s goal topped off what was a consistent game for her where she provided great run and carry throughout the contest.

Shan’s Player of the Day: Sarah Wright

“At times, Sarah was a shining light for us on what was not a fantastic performance from us.

“She was able to really hit up the leads and come through the midfield as well.

“Her second and third efforts were good and her contested marking at times was really good as well.”

Match summary:

CARL: 0.1, 1.1, 1.1, 3.3 (21)

RICH: 0.6, 4.7, 8.8, 10.9 (69)

Goals:

S Wright, Brazzale, McKay  

Best:

S Wright, Bromage, Gutknecht, Gurr, G Wright, Pound