Carlton's AFLW title hopes are over after suffering an upset 16-point loss to Fremantle in Friday's clash at Domain Stadium.
The Blues conceded the first three goals of the match and didn't register an inside-50 until the 15-minute mark of the first quarter in their 6.7 (43) to 4.3 (27) defeat.
The loss leaves Carlton one win and huge percentage adrift of second spot. That gap could be widened to two wins by the end of the weekend, with only one more game remaining for the Blues.
With no semi-finals, only the top two sides play out a grand final.
Dockers captain Kara Donnellan starred with 24 disposals and two goals.
The Blues were well served by forward Darcy Vescio, who booted three goals to take her season tally to a competition-leading 14.
"We understood we needed to keep winning," Carlton coach Damien Keeping said.
"Yeah it's disappointing the scoreboard didn't go our way. We were dependant on a number of other results to go our way as well.
"But we've got another game next week and we'll drive through to the end of the season.
"It really won't shift our focus. We'll remain focused on making sure we're ready to perform against Brisbane."
Carlton suffered a blow early in the third quarter when Danielle Hardiman had to be carried off the ground with an ankle problem.
Fremantle were touted as premiership favourites before the season began but they were last before this round after going winless in their opening five games.
However, their maiden win has bolstered their hopes of avoiding the wooden spoon, as they leapfrogged the Western Bulldogs anbd GWS Giants.
Dockers coach Michelle Cowan was brimming with pride after the match.
"It's a really big moment for the girls, and big moment for the footy club," Cowan said.
"The girls have worked really hard since November 22. This win's all about them.
"They're an incredible group that were driven all along.
"Their morale around the club has been exceptional considering the draw and the one-point loss."
Share
