AFL LIVE: Carlton Blues chase Collingwood wildcard clash but Dockers stand in their way

Key Posts1.31pmEarly worries for the BluesBy Freo have turned up to play, no doubt about that. They have booted four straight goals inside the first eight minutes against Carlton at Marvel Stadium. Someone forgot to tell them they have nothing to play for - with top spot secure regardless of the outcome. They obviously want a solid hit out before a week’s rest.Worringly for the Carlton defence, the Dockers have had four forward entries for four goals - from Oscar McDonald, Shai Bolton, Josh Treacy and Patrick Voss.The Blues have just pulled one back. Harry McKay has marked and goaled. That’s given the crowd some voice,Dockers 4.0 (24) lead Blues 1.2 (8)1.22pmFreo lands first blowBy The Dockers have landed the first goal at Marvel Stadium from an unlikely source.Big Oscar McDonald, a former Blue, took a strong mark on the lead in front of goal and converted the kick.At a quick glance, the stands are three-quarters full for this clash. Not many Dockers here, though. And the Blues contingent has been further silenced by a second goal to Freo, this one off the boot of Shai Bolton. The Dockers lead 2.0 (12) to 0.0 (0) early in the first term.1.03pmFreo rest three as Fraser’s Blues awaitBy Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir has welcomed Josh Fraser to his special ruck club, praising the new Carlton coach for the way he’s turned around the Blues’ fortunes.Carlton were a rabble at 1-8 when Fraser inherited the coaching reins on an interim basis following Michael Voss’ decision to step down.Carlton coach Josh Fraser.Getty ImagesSince then, Fraser has led the Blues to 10 wins, two losses and a draw to secure them a wildcard finals berth.Although initially saying he didn’t want the senior coach role full-time, the hot run of form convinced Fraser he was ready, with the Blues officially appointing him on a three-year deal earlier this week.1.03pmInteractive: Your club’s path in 2026By 1.03pmGood afternoonBy Hello everyone and welcome to our AFL live blog for the last bumper Saturday fixtures of the season.We will start with Carlton and Fremantle at Marvel Stadium at 1.15pm AEST and go through until late tonight.Enjoy the footy to come.1 of 1