Carlton Blues start AFLW season with 26-point victory over St Kilda
Carlton defeated St Kilda by 26 points in the opening match of the 2026 AFLW season.
In the first round of the 2026 AFLW campaign, Carlton overcame St Kilda by a margin of 26 points, finishing 9.12 (66) to 6.4 (40). The Blues built an early lead, at one point ahead by 31 points, before the Saints mounted a comeback that cut the deficit to 23 points after three quarters. Carlton restored control in the final term with decisive goals from Darcy Vescio and Lila Keck.
The contest took place at Docklands Stadium and was scheduled ahead of the men’s AFL fixture, forming one of five double-header events this season. Attendance grew beyond 10,000 by halftime, reflecting strong fan interest despite injuries to key Blues players such as Sophie McKay, Keeley Sherar and Lauren Bella. St Kilda’s J'Noemi Anderson left the field with a hamstring injury.
Why it matters
The result sets the tone for Carlton's season and highlights the growing popularity of AFLW double-header events.
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