Blues Start AFLW Season with 26-Point Win Over Saints

The start of the Australian Football League Women’s (AFLW) season has brought about an intriguing development: double headers featuring both men’s and women’s matches. Last weekend’s contest between Carlton and St Kilda was a prime example, as the Blues dominated the Saints by 26 points.

Carlton’s victory set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season of women’s football. However, beneath the surface lies a more complex issue: the long-term viability of double headers in the AFLW. While early signs are promising, questions remain about whether this format is sustainable and beneficial for the growth of the women’s game.

One concern surrounding double headers is player welfare. The grueling nature of an AFLW season already takes a toll on players, who often have to contend with long travel times, limited recovery time between games, and physical demands of competing against top-class opponents. Doubling up matches on weekends risks exacerbating these issues.

Double headers also raise concerns about crowd numbers and demographics. Last weekend’s attendance at Docklands Stadium was respectable, but it’s unclear whether this model can be sustained in the long term. The Australian Football League has invested heavily in promoting the women’s game, but if double headers fail to attract sufficient crowds, they could undermine the league’s efforts.

On the other hand, aligning men’s and women’s seasons more closely can create a cohesive and engaging viewing experience for fans. This could help grow the popularity of the women’s game, which has already shown remarkable progress in recent years.

Carlton’s victory over St Kilda was notable for its display of athleticism and skill from both teams. The Blues’ midfield, led by Abbie McKay and Mimi Hill, proved to be a well-oiled machine, while the Saints showed glimpses of what could have been with some crucial late goals.

As the AFLW season progresses, it will be essential to monitor the impact of double headers on the game. While early signs are promising, there’s still much work to be done to ensure this format is a long-term success story rather than a short-lived experiment.

The next few weeks will provide crucial insights into whether double headers can sustain themselves. Carlton’s upcoming match against Adelaide and St Kilda’s trip to Geelong will both be closely watched, as will the performances of other teams in the league. If the AFLW can continue to grow its audience and showcase the talents of its players, then perhaps double headers could become a staple of the women’s season for years to come.

The success or failure of double headers ultimately depends on how they are implemented and sustained over time. With careful planning and attention to detail, there’s no reason why this format can’t be successful - both on and off the field.