Western Bulldogs captain Ellie Blackburn has lauded the ongoing development of the team’s youth, despite the circumstances of a difficult season.

The Bulldogs went down to Carlton by 19 points on Friday night, but their efforts - particularly from some of the 1-4 year players - could not be faulted.

“We’ve got a whole bunch of 18-24 year olds on our list – so we have a lot of football ahead of us in that bracket of players which is really exciting,” Blackburn said post-match.

“You think of an Issy Pritchard, who probably hasn’t got enough credit more publicly for what she deserves at the moment - she’s been dominating as a midfielder.

“Gab’s still 22 years of age and playing in different positions, you’ve got Lizzy G and Twiggy too – these players are still really young and have 10+ years of footy ahead of them if they want it.

“There’s exciting times ahead of us, really.”

Blackburn said while finals footy is unfortunately now out of reach, she is confident the team will continue to improve over the last month of the season.

“The most important part is that the group is really connected at the moment, despite the track record (on-field) we’ve got this season,” she said.

“Our group is in a really positive place, and we’re really working together to try and educate each other as much as possible.

“I think it’s just bringing everyone along the journey for the next few weeks, and making sure everyone gets as much experience as possible out there.

“We’re trying different things and everyone is learning their role better, so we can become better footballers.”

The Bulldogs will meet Adelaide at Norwood Oval this Friday night from 7.15pm AEDT (6.45pm ACDT) in Indigenous Round.