Carlton vs West Coast AFLW Elimination Final
The Blues and Eagles faced off in a crucial elimination final, with the winner set to play Hawthorn in the semi-final next weekend. The match took place under challenging conditions at a rain-soaked Ikon Park.
Match Conditions and Early Play
Carlton dealt with biblical downpours and strong winds to secure a commanding 41-point victory over West Coast. The game was contested at chilly seven degrees with sideways rain, turning the field into a slippery surface where players frequently tumbled.
Before the match, a broken West Coast banner, torn apart before players entered the field, was seen as a bad omen by superstitious fans.
Carlton's Strong Performance
Carlton took control in the third quarter, scoring six goals thanks to their impressive young forward line. Rookie Poppy Scholz had earlier acknowledged their previous win was scrappy and expressed a hope for a cleaner, more dominant performance this time, which was fulfilled.
- Erone Fitzpatrick, a member of the All Australian squad, opened the scoring for Carlton, energizing the crowd.
- Tara Bohanna followed with a spectacular mark and goal, leaving West Coast scoreless in the first quarter.
West Coast's Comeback Attempt
Despite heavy rain soaking the ground in the second quarter, Daisy Pearce’s Eagles began to improve, finally benefiting from wind conditions that favored them.
“The Blues took charge in the third quarter, with a six-goal term, propelled by their extraordinary crop of young talent in the forward.”
Carlton’s performance demonstrated resilience and effective adaptation to tough weather, securing their progression.
Author's Summary
Carlton’s young talent shone through a brutal weather challenge to claim a decisive 41-point win over West Coast in the AFLW elimination final, setting up a semi-final with Hawthorn.