Carlton has launched its AFLW campaign with an impressive 26-point victory over St Kilda, withstanding a furious fourth-quarter fightback to claim a 9.12 (66) to 6.4 (40) win at Docklands Stadium.

Played as a curtain-raiser to the men's fixture, the blockbuster clash made a compelling case for more double-header matches. The atmosphere was electric as fans filtered in early; the crowd officially peaked at an impressive 20,455 during the final term, providing a fitting stage for a high-intensity opening round.

Depleted Blues Midfield Shines Early

Carlton entered the clash missing key talent, with young star Sophie McKay (calf), reigning best and fairest Keeley Sherar (quad), and recruit Lauren Bella (calf) all sidelined. Despite these setbacks, the Blues' midfield unit delivered a masterclass in modern, running football.

Captain Abbie McKay led from the front with a monumental 32 disposals and nine clearances. She was ably supported by Mimi Hill (28 disposals), recruit Claudia Whitfort (27 touches), and Irish export Dayna Finn (22 disposals).

Athletic youngster Poppy Scholz proved to be the early spark plug. Scholz shook off a defender to boot the game's opening major, finishing with 1.4 for the day but posing a constant threat in the forward half. Her opening goal triggered a dominant run of four unanswered majors for Carlton, giving them a commanding 31-point lead at one stage.

Saints Mount Brave Fightback

Though overwhelmed early by Carlton's slick ball movement, St Kilda found their footing late in the second term when recruit Sophie Butterworth booted their first goal.

Tyanna Smith was outstanding for the Saints, fighting tirelessly to finish with 19 disposals, eight clearances, and two brilliant running goals. Behind Smith’s leadership and Georgia Patrikios (27 disposals), St Kilda dominated the clearances in the third term, slicing the margin back to 23 points heading into the final change.

The Saints then sent a shiver through the Carlton camp just 27 seconds into the fourth quarter. Amber Clarke soccered home a spectacular goal from a tight angle, before snapping another moments later to suddenly reduce the margin to a mere 11 points.

Cool Heads Prevail

With momentum squarely with the Saints, Carlton's experienced heads stood tall. Veteran forward Darcy Vescio snapped a crucial goal to halt St Kilda’s run, before youngster Lila Keck (21 disposals, two goals) sealed the deal with a late major to put the result beyond doubt.

While Carlton celebrates a winning start under coach Mathew Buck, there will be concern for St Kilda coach Nick Dal Santo, who saw J'Noemi Anderson forced from the field with a hamstring injury.

What's Next?

Carlton will look to carry this momentum back home when they host Adelaide at Princes Park next weekend, while St Kilda will look to bounce back when they travel down the highway to face Geelong.