MELBOURNE has continued its unbeaten run in 2026, with a dominant third term the key to setting up the 34-point victory against Carlton at Casey Fields on Saturday.

The Demons, playing against the Blues for the first time since 2022, kicked four goals to one in ‘the premiership quarter’ to take the game away from their opponents en route to winning 8.10 (58) to 3.6 (24).

Claudia Whitfort battled hard for Carlton (24 disposals, 10 tackles, and six clearances) but the Blues struggled in the afternoon sunshine.

06:06

AFLW R6 | Match highlights

Watch the highlights from our game vs Melbourne.

Melbourne dominated disposals (+49), inside 50s (+18) and contested possessions (+24) to hand Carlton a second consecutive defeat.

It was challenging to move the ball early, with a swirling breeze causing headaches for both sides.

Poppy Scholz had the opportunity to put the Blues in front early, getting on the end of a Whitfort kick inside 50, but missed to the left. Demon Tyla Hanks managed the conditions better, slotting the opening goal from a tight angle after receiving a free kick.

Melbourne, kicking with the wind in the second, used the conditions well with a series of long kicks early in the quarter to send the ball inside 50.

Irish duo Dayna Finn and Erone Fitzpatrick got busy for Carlton in the second, combining for 15 disposals, nine contested possessions, five inside 50s, three tackles, three clearances, and two important goals to keep their side in touch.  

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AFLW R6 | Ronnie and Dayna's second term majors

Watch Erone Fitzpatrick and Dayna Finn's goals from the second quarter!

The Blues also lifted their game at stoppages after the first break, winning five clearances to the Demons’ six after trailing six to two at quarter-time. New ruck combo Jess Good and Lauren Bella fought hard against Georgia Campbell and Harris, with Bella (on club debut and on return from a calf injury) on managed minutes.

Most of the third quarter was an arm wrestle, before Molly O’Hehir and Maggie Mahony goaled in quick succession to give Melbourne a bit of breathing space.

Melbourne pushed on, with Olivia Purcell bagging two in quick succession to push the lead out to 29 points. Melbourne didn’t let up their pressure in the final term, holding Carlton scoreless to ensure it remained unbeaten in fourth quarters for 2026. 

Up next

Both teams feature in the IKON Park double-header on the AFL Grand Final eve public holiday next Friday. Carlton will look to get back on the winners list when it hosts Richmond in the 4pm game. 

MELBOURNE     1.1     3.4         7.5          8.10 (58)
CARLTON              0.3     2.6         3.6          3.6 (24)

GOALS
Carlton: Fitzpatrick, Finn, S.McKay