Star defender Bri Davey says Carlton is ready to “make a statement” in its final-round AFL Women’s clash against Brisbane this weekend.

The Blues will return to Ikon Park – the scene of their fairytale inaugural season opener – on Sunday in a quest to maintain their unbeaten home record.

While the Blues’ grand-final chances appear slim at best, Davey says that won’t diminish the playing group’s desire to defeat the unbeaten Lions.

“We want to finish the season on a high. We want to make a statement,” Davey said.

“I think we’re really up and about to play Brisbane. I’ve personally always been one to enjoy playing teams that I know will be quite the challenge.

“It will be another challenge for the group and we’re hoping to obviously step up to that challenge.”
 

Davey, who has just averaged 20 disposals a game this season, has well and truly lived up to her billing as one of the competition’s premier players. 

While disappointed in the Blues’ “few little lapses” this season, the co-vice-captain is buoyed by the team’s future.

“It’s not just about making an impact the first year but having some longevity about your squad and hopefully getting consecutive years of success,” she said.

“I see a really bright future and lots of potential for the group. There’s definitely a massive future for this club and the young group we have is really exciting.”

The Blues will host the Lions from 3:35pm on Sunday, with the Carlton faithful encouraged to get along to see the girls for one last time at Ikon Park in 2017.

Regardless of the result, Davey says the birth of the AFL Women’s has been a roaring success.

“It’s (AFL Women’s) absolutely incredible. It sounds cliche, but I don’t think words can describe how awesome this first season and this first experience have been,” she said.

“And to see the support continue week after week, it’s really exciting stuff.”