CARLTON will be seeking a big win over traditional rivals Collingwood when the two teams run out onto Ikon Park tonight.

Underneath the lights of their famous home, the Blues will be out to make amends for the disappointing loss against Geelong last week. 

A win would be a crucial one for the Blues, as the team’s chances of making the finals hangs in the balance.

Three changes have been made to last week’s team, with youngsters Emerson Woods and Charlotte Wilson set to make their debut in the Navy Blue.

Details: Ikon Park, Saturday, March 2, 7:10pm (AEDT) 

Broadcast: Click here for broadcast guide and here for all game day info. 

THE GAME IN FOCUS:

It hasn’t been a year to remember for Collingwood, who are yet to register a win this season. However, there is bound to be added feeling to this game, with the historic rivalry between the teams making a win extra-important for both clubs.

A slow start against the Cats, as well as a drop in skill efficiency, were the two areas the Blues struggled with in their loss to Geelong last week. They will need to be on their game from the first bounce, and maintain the pressure and movement which saw them take home the big win against GWS in Round 3.

Despite their track record so far this year, the Pies will take some momentum into the game this weekend after their game against the Giants last week. In their best performance to date, the Pies narrowly lost on the back of an outstanding performance from Sarah D’Arcy and youngster Sarah Dargan.

THE DIFFERENCE:

Katie Loynes played a massive role in the Blues’ third-quarter revival against the Cats last week. She may not have had the biggest game in terms of numbers, but her impact and presence around the contest, football smarts and maturity helped her teammates gather their composure and get back into the game.

It’s no surprise the 2018 joint best and fairest can have this impact, and she’ll be looking to repeat that tonight.

If the Pies are able to get any advantage during the night, there’s no doubt that coach Daniel Harford will be looking to Loynes to help steady the ship. 

BLUE FOCUS:

The combination of Kerryn Harrington, Gab Pound and Jade Van Dyk have proven to be a tight, reliable unit in defence so far this season. As the season has progressed, the three have found their rhythm, making it increasingly difficult for the opposition’s forwards.

BLUE VIEW:

No matter where these two teams are placed on the ladder or their form leading up to the game, it is destined to be a fiery, contested and tough game from the first bounce.

Expect the Blues to look to move the ball on quickly from the stoppages and attempt to catch their opposition out on the overlap. The Blues forwards will also have to do everything in their power to keep the ball locked in their forward half and not allow the Pies to get the run and carry they seek through the corridor.