Carlton Holds Off Saints for Opening AFLW Win

Carlton has kicked off the 2026 AFLW season with a hard-fought 26-point win against St Kilda, showcasing their ambition after reaching last season's preliminary final.

The Blues established a significant lead, at one stage being up by 31 points. However, St Kilda mounted a spirited comeback in the fourth quarter, threatening to overturn the deficit. Carlton ultimately sealed the 9.12 (66) to 6.4 (40) victory by kicking late goals.

Sunday's game at Docklands Stadium was part of a double header preceding the men's AFL clash, a concept that appears to be a success, drawing a crowd that exceeded 20,000 by the final quarter. This attendance figure is likely to fuel calls for greater alignment between the men's and women's seasons.

Despite missing key players like Sophie McKay, Keeley Sherar, and Lauren Bella due to injury, Carlton dominated early, particularly in the midfield. Skipper Abbie McKay was instrumental with 32 disposals and nine clearances, supported by strong performances from Mimi Hill, Lila Keck (who kicked two goals), Claudia Whitfort, and Dayna Finn. Lily Goss also contributed two goals for the Blues.

St Kilda's Tyanna Smith was a standout performer, accumulating 19 disposals and two goals, with Georgia Patrikios also featuring prominently. Amber Clarke provided a late spark for the Saints with two goals in the final term, but Carlton's Darcy Vescio and Keck ultimately secured the win. St Kilda's J'Noemi Anderson unfortunately suffered a hamstring injury during the match.