The Carlton Blues have charged into their first AFLW preliminary final in four years, delivering a commanding 46-point semi-final victory against Hawthorn at Ikon Park on Saturday night.
Dominant Start Sets the Tone
From the opening bounce, the Blues established complete control, storming to a 4.7 to 0.0 lead by quarter-time. This explosive start set two new AFLW finals records for both the highest quarter-time score and the largest quarter-time margin in the competition's history.
Despite some inaccuracy in front of goal, Carlton's midfield and defence were impenetrable. Mimi Hill and Madeleine Guerin were relentless at the contest, while the McKay sisters shone brightly. Abbie McKay dominated through the midfield, and Sophie McKay proved deadly in attack, finishing with three goals.
Hawthorn's Brief Rally and Crucial Departure
After a stern address from coach Daniel Webster following their fifth successive goalless quarter, Hawthorn mounted a response in the second term. Led by the fierce Eliza West, the Hawks turned the tables, dominating centre clearances and inside-50s to reduce the margin to 27 points.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically early in the second half when West, Hawthorn's best player on the night, suffered a concussion after being accidentally struck in the head by a kick from teammate Tilly Lucas-Rodd. Following her departure from the field, the Hawks' challenge wilted.
Carlton Seals Emphatic Victory
With their key opponent sidelined, the Blues did as they pleased in the third quarter. The period was highlighted by Dayna Finn kicking back-to-back goals, ballooning the margin to a formidable 52 points at the final break.
Sophie McKay added a fourth-quarter goal with her trademark celebration before Hawthorn managed two consolation majors. The final scoreline read 11.13 (79) to 4.9 (33), securing Carlton's ticket to a preliminary final against the Brisbane Lions at Brighton Homes Arena next weekend.
Aftermath and Looking Ahead
The loss marks a second consecutive straight-sets finals exit for Hawthorn, who are yet to win an AFLW final. Their campaign was further hampered by injuries to Emily Everist (concussion), Kaitlyn Ashmore (calf), and Jasmine Garner (calf).
For Carlton, the comprehensive win, built on massive advantages in inside-50s and clearances, signals they are a genuine premiership threat as they prepare to face the Lions.
