COMING into the first round of the season, the Blues came into the match excited for their clash with last season's Premiers.

With a number of new Blues, running out as a new group for the first time was an experience, but ultimately, North Melbourne was able to get the better of the Carlton outfit. 

North Melbourne were able to maintain their pressure, giving Carlton a tough run, 9.11 (65) to 2.5 (17) to the home side.

Kicking off the match with a strong start, Grace Master kicked the first major of the day, as she gathered a ground ball inside the 50 to get a bouncing kick into goal.

The competition was neck and neck in the first term, with both teams winning contested marks while putting up their best defensive efforts.

The first quarter ended with only an eight-point difference as the Blues held up a strong front in a busy term, 2.3 (15) to 1.1 (7) to the Roos.

Newly announced captain Octavia Di Donato stood out all morning rallying up a total of 20 disposals, being able to attack the ball while turning on as a defender when needed.

With North Melbourne keeping constant pressure to push the ball into their forward 50, it proved to be a tough contest. 

Throughout the tough outing, Erone Fitzpatrick was still able to acquire six clearances in her return game from an ACL injury. 

Despite their best efforts, Carlton remained scoreless in the second term. After a demanding first half, the Blues came out hungry with Hannah Bowey kicking the Blues' second goal five minutes into the third quarter. 

Coming into the fourth term, the Blues were able to gain more ground in their forward 50 with Lila Keck, Evie Lee and Sophia McCarthy all creating opportunities in front of goal, but unfortunately not being able to secure any major scores, as the Blues fell by 48 points. 

The VFLW Blues will be back at Deakin University next Saturday 26 April at 12:05pm (AEST) facing Geelong.

*Photo credit - Thomas McLachlan