Any hope Carlton had of starting 2003 on a positive note has been absolutely smashed by an Aboriginal All-Stars team in Darwin.

Despite a strong return by Anthony Koutoufites for Carlton, the fast-paced and determined All-Stars were 11 goals too good for a Blues outfit which went down 19.16 (130) to 8.9 (57).

A record capacity crowd of 17,500 at Marrara cheered the All-Stars to a two goal lead at the end of the first quarter.

Carlton failed to capitalise on opportunities in the heat and humidity after the break and fell behind by nine goals at the half.

Fremantle's Des Headland put in a spectacular performance of free running football which was capped off with a goal.

Teammate Andrew Krakouer of Richmond kicked three.

Captain Andrew McLeod, vice captain Darryl White of Brisbane, Leon Davis of Collingwood all contributed with goals.

Struggling to shrug off a miserable year in 2002, Carlton's height advantage failed to make a dent in the powerful All-Stars line up.

Xavier Clarke of St Kilda rolled an ankle and could be out for a couple of weeks.

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