Carlton’s AFLW Game Changers will look to record their first win since Round 2 this weekend, as they take on Melbourne at Ikon Park on Sunday.
The Blues will be trying to snap a three-game losing streak, while the Demons could move into the top two with a win.
Carlton went down by 35 points against Adelaide last Saturday night, but their performance was much improved from recent weeks.
They were able to maintain possession for extended periods and lock the ball inside the forward fifty, but they struggled to convert that good play into goals.
There are four changes to the Carlton line-up from that game, with Jess Hosking, Laura Attard, Madeline Keryk and debutant Tiahna Cochrane all coming into the side.
Lauren Brazzale and Lauren Arnell are both out injured, while youngsters Courtney Webb and Reni Hicks have been rested.
Darcy Vescio has been named in the midfield as opposed to her usual forward post, a move that the Blues will hope gets her more involved in the game.
While Vescio may still swing forward, Tayla Harris will shoulder more of the responsibility of leading the forward line, which she has proven more than capable of doing.
Melbourne have struggled to find consistency after starting the season as one of the favourites to challenge for the premiership.
They have had strong wins over both of last season’s grand finalists but have also lost to less-fancied Fremantle and Collingwood sides.
Despite this, they are currently third on the ladder and are only outside of the top two on percentage, making Sunday’s game a crucial one for their premiership hopes.
Daisy Pearce is the most obvious threat, as she is currently second in the AFLW for disposals (18.6 per game) and first in clearances (5.2 per game).
Fellow midfielder Elise O’Dea isn’t far behind her captain on current form, and they lead a formidable midfield brigade.
The battle in the middle will be crucial, and the likes of Sarah Hosking, Jess Hosking, Katie Loynes and Shae Audley will need to continue their excellent seasons.
Katie Loynes was one of Carlton's best in Round 5. She'll be looking to replicate her form against the Demons on Sunday. (Photo: AFL Photos)
The Game Changers will also have their hands full with a forward line that has kicked the second most goals in the competitions, led by ex-basketballer Tegan Cunningham (six goals).
Last time the two sides met was in round four last season, where Carlton suffered a narrow six-point loss at Casey Fields.
Pearce and O’Dea combined for 56 disposals that day, which highlights the need for the Blues to effectively shut them down.
If they can do that, there’s no reason why they can’t cause an upset and keep themselves in the hunt for the premiership.
