ANDREW Collins was one of many unheralded Carlton players to step up in the absence of several of their more-established teammates as the banged-up Blues overcame a determined Western Bulldogs on Saturday night.

Collins, 23, played arguably his best game since crossing from Richmond before the 2011 season, picking up 21 touches and kicking three goals in the 18-point win that kept Carlton's finals hopes alive.

The Blues, struck hard by injury and suspension, needed to receive such contributions with Levi Casboult, Tom Bell and Frazer Dale all making their AFL debuts against the Dogs.

"It was enjoyable to contribute tonight and kick a few goals, but I think the most enjoyable thing to come out of the game was playing with our three debutants who all came off the rookie list," Collins said.

"I think ... we showed the club that we've probably found three players."

Out-of-favour veterans Paul Bower, Jordan Russell and Bret Thornton were also offered a reprieve on the back of the club's injury crisis.

The Blues' lengthy injury list will force coach Brett Ratten to continue to plug holes in his line-up with players who might not otherwise get an opportunity, but he won't be lowering his expectations of any of his charges.

"They have a responsibility to the football club, to their teammates, to the supporters - we won't change whether it's a first-gamer or a bloke playing 300-odd games - they have the same responsibility when they run out on the ground," Ratten said.

"I think it's a really good lesson. You have to look at yourself and look at others around you to make sure that we don't waver in our quest to become the best we can. I think we need to make sure that we don't lower any standard at any time at our football club.

"We won't compromise that. As long as I'm the coach we won't compromise that."