IN A game filled with remarkable goals from both sides, the Blues were able to hold their lead to win their Round 4 clash with Kangaroos by eight points.
As dreary rain once again fell over Ikon Park, the Sherrin spent more time rolling along the ground than drifting through the air.
Several AFLW-listed Blues included in the side had standout performances.
Quarter-by-quarter breakdown:
Q1:
Carlton had a near-perfect start to the match, but it was North Melbourne who converted the first major of the morning by taking advantage of a penalty shot. The Kangaroos looked set to score consecutive goals, before a gripping footrace by Jessie Coletti rained on their parade. Kicking off a step, Akayla Peterson slotted Carlton’s first goal of the match. This was followed by a beautiful set shot from Serena Gibbs which sailed through the middle of the sticks for another goal. Maddison Wilson then kicked a thrilling around the corner goal to add to Carlton’s scoring for the quarter.
How’s the start from our #VFLWBlues! ??
— Carlton Women's (@carltonfc_w) March 21, 2021
It’s 19 to 8 at the first break against North. pic.twitter.com/OehdkxnIgy
Q2:
The Blues kept play in their forward half for the majority of the quarter, however North Melbourne continued to hit the scoreboard. A massive physical effort from Peterson aided an incredible goal by Stephanie Lawrence, who struck the ball at an odd angle before it dribbled over the line for a major. As the ball was repeatedly brought to ground in the wet conditions, Carlton had to be strong in clearing the ball and taking possession quickly. As the siren sounded, North Melbourne had the opportunity to level the scores, but the ball went amiss.
The start we needed!
— Carlton Women's (@carltonfc_w) March 21, 2021
We take a 6 point lead into the third quarter.
CARL 26 NM 20.#VFLWBlues pic.twitter.com/VELqHswTIM
Q3:
Carlton’s defensive effort was rewarded with numerous rundowns and holding the ball penalties to its advantage. Winnie Laing and Paige Trudgeon combined for what would’ve been an epic goal, however the ball missed to Trudgeon’s right for a behind. After many powerful yet sporadic shots at target, Jones was able to break through with a classy goal.
A cracking game of football happening at Ikon Park. ??
— Carlton Women's (@carltonfc_w) March 21, 2021
The Blues keep the lead with 34 points to North’s 23.
Last quarter coming up. pic.twitter.com/UIBmpVaxKM
Q4:
Showing off the Blues' scoring efficiency, Jones sidestepped her opponent and launched for her second major of the day. This was followed by a spinning goal from Lawrence for a double of her own. Wanting to add herself into Carlton’s mix of goal-scorers, Trudgeon had two grabs at the ball before notching a goal. The Blues had to work hard in defence to keep the Kangaroos from coming within a scoring shot, but in the end, the girls were able to wrestle back momentum and finish with confidence.
Nothing like a ‘Bagger win. ??
— Carlton Women's (@carltonfc_w) March 21, 2021
The #VFLWBlues have defeated the North at home, 52 to 44.
Sing it loud. ?? pic.twitter.com/oUfQ8tDI7U
Luke’s best on field:
“Akayla Peterson was the standout today,” O’Shannessy said.
“She just seemed to be everywhere, particularly when she was playing on the wing.
“(She was then) able to go forward and hit the scoreboard again, so she’s kicked a goal in every game.”
Match summary:
Carlton 3.1 1.1 1.1 3.1(52)
North Melbourne 1.2 2.1 0.1 3.4(44)
GOALS
Jones 2, Lawrence 2, Paterson, Gibbs, Wilson, Trudgeon
BEST
Paterson, Gibbs, Jones, Lawrence, Guerin, Laing