Carlton’s Young Guns Shine in AFLW Opener Against Collingwood
The AFLW season kicked off with a bang as Carlton and Collingwood clashed in the opening round at IKON Park, drawing a crowd of 8,042 fans. This match carried extra significance, not just as the first game of the league’s 10th season, but also as a throwback to the historic inaugural AFLW clash back in 2017, when Carlton defeated Collingwood by 35 points. Eight years later, the Magpies were determined to avenge that loss, but the Blues once again showed why they are a force to be reckoned with.
The game got off to an electrifying start when Collingwood veteran Sabrina Frederick kicked the first goal of the night, letting out a scream that echoed through the stadium. Alana Porter soon added another for the Magpies, while Carlton initially struggled to find rhythm and fumbled a few early chances. The Blues, however, began to turn the tide in the second quarter, driven by standout performances from their young talents. Rookie Poppy Scholtz, sister of Port Adelaide’s Matilda Scholtz, made an immediate impact, energizing her teammates with her first goal. Another first-gamer, Sophie McKay, also impressed with her composure and skill under pressure.
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A highlight of the evening came from last year’s number one draft pick, Ash Centra, representing Collingwood. She made an unforgettable debut by taking a commanding mark and slotting a goal with her very first kick, signaling her potential to be a game-changer in the league. Despite Centra’s brilliance, Carlton found a way to seize control. The third quarter saw the Blues pushing forward, even though both teams struggled with goal accuracy in a tense contest for possession.
By the final quarter, Carlton had built momentum and ran away with a 24-point victory, finishing 6.9 (45) to 3.3 (21). The win not only marked a triumphant start to the season but also brought back memories for long-time fans who had witnessed the league’s first-ever match. Teacher Louise Noonan, for instance, shared the emotional experience of attending the inaugural game in 2017, explaining how she had been pulled into the excitement of women’s footy by her students.
The evening highlighted both the enduring rivalry between the Blues and Magpies and the rising stars shaping the future of the AFLW. With young players like Poppy Scholtz and Sophie McKay stepping up, and draft sensation Ash Centra making an immediate impression, fans were given a thrilling glimpse of what’s to come in season ten. As Carlton celebrated their victory, it was clear that the league’s next generation of talent is already making its mark—and the excitement around women’s footy has never been higher.
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