On Saturday night, a huge clash looms at Optus stadium between Fremantle and Carlton.

Carlton having surprised most people, starting 4-1, are facing possibly their sternest test yet. A Fremantle outfit sitting 2nd on the table, also with a 4-1 record.

Carlton however have had the wood over Fremantle. Winning the last four clashes with the Dockers, including two of them being late winners in Perth, the first with Mark Murphy’s snap and winner with 30 seconds left in 2019. Then, Jack Newnes stunning goal after the final siren from the pocket 50 out in 2019.

Last year, the Blues took care of Fremantle in both clashes in Melbourne. Fremantle confirmed on Wednesday night that Heath Chapman, Hayden Young, Liam Henry and Matthew Johnson had joined Connor Blakely in the AFL Health and Safety protocols. They also be without assistant coaches Josh Carr and Matthew Boyd for Saturday’s clash against Carlton, with both in health and safety protocols.

The key for Carlton lies in the third quarter, Fremantle had a breakout third quarter against Essendon where they piled on six goals to none. Carlton led by 49-points at half time, where is by three quarter time, they had conceded six goals to Port and allowed them back within 17-points at the final change, and almost went on to lose the game.

Carlton must have a strong premership quarter if they wish to continue their massive start to the season, Harry McKay and Charlie Curnow will need to shine down forward. Carlton is also set to welcome back Patrick Cripps, which no doubt will provide some stability through the midfield. Carlton simply must learn how to hold out games better, but with their record against Fremantle, they will be confident they can get the job done.

Fremantle start favoruites at $1.79 to Carlton $2.07.

Prediction: Carlton by 15-points.