A massive game for both clubs, for differing reasons, with Fremantle determined to push for a spot top four and Carlton desperate to stay in touch with the top eight. Carlton is gunning for its first win over a side in the top seven and, after coming so close on numerous occasions, will be hell-bent on achieving this mini-milestone. But it looms as an extraordinarily difficult assignment against arguably the best defensive unit in the AFL. Despite the fast track at Etihad Stadium, a tough, low-scoring affair beckons. The winner has much to gain, while the loser will be under pressure to achieve their aim.

 

WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Saturday August 3, 7.40pm

 

TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide and odds

 

R14, 2009, Carlton 16.19 (115) d Fremantle 15.10 (100) at Patersons Stadium

R13, 2010, Fremantle 14.12 (96) d Carlton 12.15 (87) at Etihad Stadium

R22, 2010, Fremantle 13.15 (93) d Carlton 13.9 (87) at Patersons Stadium

R21, 2011, Carlton 16.19 (115) d Fremantle 12.13 (85) at Patersons Stadium

R5, 2012, Carlton 10.5 (65) d Fremantle 7.15 (57) at Patersons Stadium

 

1. When the two sides last clashed – in round five last year at Patersons Stadium – Carlton won a low-scoring contest by eight points and Kade Simpson (the fourth-ranked Blue at No. 69 in the Official AFL Player Ratings) starred with 35 possessions and 13 marks.

 

2. The Blues have won the past two contests between the sides but since 2009 it’s three wins apiece.

 

3. This will be just their fourth meeting at Etihad Stadium and the Dockers hold a 2-1 advantage. They have all been close encounters, decided by 18, nine and nine points.

 

4. Both have good recent records at Etihad Stadium - Freo has won its past four games there, while Carlton has won four of its past five.

 

5. Fremantle is the most miserly team in the AFL, conceding just 70 points a game, compared to Carlton’s 87.

 

6. Carlton is ranked equal-second in contested possessions; Fremantle is 11th.