FIVE THINGS TO WATCH FOR AS CARLTON HOST COLLINGWOOD IN THE AFLW SEASON-OPENER:
* Will the AFL have another lockout on their hands?
Last year’s inaugural season opener proved so popular that AFL supremo Gillon McLachlan had to apologise to fans, locked out of the 24,500-capacity Princes Park. Officials are expecting another big turnout this year but have opted to keep the game at Carlton’s traditional home ground. The wisdom of that decision may well be questioned if crowds are turned away again.
* How will Carlton’s star forwards fare?
In high-flying Darcy Vescio and former Brisbane recruit Tayla Harris, the Blues have two genuine stars up forward. Vescio’s 14 majors – including four on debut – were the most of any player last season while Harris topped the league for contested marks. But it will count for little without supply, meaning the Blues must break even in the midfield battle.
* What sort of reception will Nicola Stevens get?
For all the positives of last year’s inaugural season, there wasn’t much in the way of rivalries. That could be about to change with several big-name trades likely to add a bit of spice. After winning Collingwood’s best-and-fairest award last year, Carlton recruit Stevens is expecting some well-chosen words from her former teammates. It will be fascinating to see whether Magpies fans also get stuck in.
* What impact will rule changes have on the game?
The message from AFL HQ is clear – they want to see a more free-flowing and high-scoring brand of football in AFLW’s second season than was on display in the first. The last touch out-of-bounds rule should help to open the game up and minimise stoppages but officials have opted not to introduce anti-congestion zones this season. Time-on will also be introduced at the end of each quarter.
* Will Moana Hope live up to her star billing?
Hope became an overnight sensation – and the face of AFLW – when she slotted six goals in the 2016 All-Star exhibition game. But the heavily tattooed full-forward struggled to live up to the hype in her first season as a Collingwood marquee signing. The 29-year-old has since worked hard on her fitness and is likely to rotate between the midfield and forward line. Wherever she plays, expect her to have a big impact this year.