The Western Bulldogs AFLW program returns after a week off to face Carlton in the annual Pride Game at VU Whitten Oval on Sunday afternoon.
MATCH INFORMATION
AFLW Round 3
When: Sunday 23 January 2022
Where: Victoria University Whitten Oval
Gates Open: 2.10pm
Game Starts: 3.10pm
Admission: Buy tickets here
Broadcast: Channel 7, 7plus. The match will also be streamed live on womens.afl and the Official AFLW app.
You can follow @BulldogsW on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for live updates throughout the match. Don't forget to tag all your posts with the official club hashtag #MightyWest
2021 SUMMARY
Western Bulldogs 8th (5-4) 88.2%
Carlton 7th (5-4) 125.8%
LAST MEETING
Round 2 2021
Western Bulldogs 6.6 (42) def Carlton 5.6 (36)
Last-quarter goals from skipper Ellie Blackburn and the emergence of young star Jess Fitzgerald were the catalyst behind a six-point victory over Carlton in Round 2. Blackburn had 22 touches to go with multiple goals, while Kirsten McLeod showed plenty in her two-goal performance.
TALKING NOTES
Returning stars
After a week of COVID-19 disruptions, many players will return to the track post-isolation. Recovery and rest have been key for all players and staff, as they look to nab their first victory of season 2022.
Pride on the line
This weekend marks a special occasion in the AFLW calendar, with the annual Pride Round taking place across the weekend. It will be the fifth instalment between the Bulldogs and Blues, with both teams wearing specially-designed guernseys. Expect to see an exciting vibe and atmosphere at Whitten Oval with fans coming to show their support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Forward plans
While the loss of Izzy Huntington to a season-ending knee injury will no doubt leave a hole in attack, expect some young stars to step up in her absence. Nell Morris-Dalton has impressed early, while Bonnie Toogood should provide a focal point at stages.
Community Foundation presence
Come and say hi to the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation team in the Fan Zone for your chance to win a signed AFLW Home Guernsey. Learn about the Foundation and how they help improve the lives of individuals and families in the West, with lots of giveaways on offer too.