The Australian Football League Women’s (AFLW) competition has reached its climactic finals series, with eight teams vying for the ultimate glory of being crowned premiers. After an enthralling home-and-away season filled with dramatic twists and turns, the cream has risen to the top, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to this captivating campaign.
Undefeated Kangaroos Lead the Pack
North Melbourne enters the finals as the team to beat, having stormed through the regular season undefeated, with their only blemish being a draw. The Kangaroos’ dominance was on full display when they crushed the reigning premiers Brisbane Lions in a lopsided grand final rematch early in the season. With a battle-hardened midfield, miserly defense, and potent forward line, North Melbourne appears primed to go one step further than their runner-up finish last year and claim their maiden AFLW flag.
Leading the charge for the Roos is star onballer Jasmine Garner, who has been a force both around the contests and near goal, booting 13 majors while remaining the key to North Melbourne’s commanding midfield. Garner’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes her a formidable opponent for any team.
Hawks Soar into Contention
Hawthorn has emerged as this season’s surprise packet, already pocketing a cool $1 million as the champion club across both the men’s and women’s home-and-away seasons. The Hawks will launch into their maiden finals campaign with momentum after overrunning Richmond in their final regular-season match. While a favorable draw means they have only defeated one other top-eight side, Hawthorn’s scintillating form, which includes eight consecutive wins, suggests they are well-equipped to cause some upsets with their dynamic running game and balanced midfield.
Eliza West has been instrumental in the Hawks’ rise, with the tenacious midfielder taking her game to new heights since being handed more responsibility. No longer flying under the radar, West’s ability to win her own ball and clamp down on opposition weapons has been crucial to Hawthorn’s success.
Lions Aim to Defend Crown
Reigning premiers Brisbane Lions enter the finals with a largely unchanged lineup from their triumphant 2022 campaign, aiming to become the first team to achieve back-to-back AFLW premierships. The Lions quickly rediscovered their best form after a shock opening-round thrashing by the Kangaroos, showcasing their trademark fast-paced outside game to dismantle several lesser lights.
However, narrow escapes against Adelaide and a loss to Geelong have served as timely reminders of the challenges that come with being the hunted. Key forward Dakota Davidson, who played a pivotal role in turning the tide during last year’s grand final, looms as a major threat for the Lions at the business end of the season, even as her goal output has decreased while teammate Taylor Smith’s has risen.
Crows Seeking Redemption
Adelaide may regret having to travel in week one of the finals to face the standout Kangaroos after falling agonizingly short against them just a fortnight ago. The Crows have also suffered narrow defeats to fellow contenders Brisbane and Melbourne, raising concerns about their capacity to capitalize on their opportunities in the forward half.
We know we’ve got the talent and the game plan to match it with the best. It’s just a matter of executing under pressure and making the most of our chances when they come.
– Crows midfielder Ebony Marinoff
Ebony Marinoff, who is enjoying a career-best season averaging 30.4 disposals and 6.5 clearances per game, will be crucial to Adelaide’s chances of turning the tables on their rivals and securing a third AFLW premiership.
Dark Horses Lurking
Fremantle, Port Adelaide, Richmond, and Essendon round out the top eight and will all fancy their chances of causing an upset or two. The Dockers, powered by a breakout season from ruck Mim Strom and boasting a deep midfield contingent, have returned to the finals for the first time since 2020.
Port Adelaide will make their finals debut riding a six-game winning streak, with their contested ball-winning style well-suited to the intensity of playoff football. The Power’s Gemma Houghton demonstrated her big-game ability with a clutch last-minute goal to sink GWS and secure a home final.
Richmond, led by reigning league best and fairest Monique Conti, will be eager to atone for a sluggish end to the home-and-away season, while Essendon has already exceeded expectations by qualifying for the finals in just their second AFLW campaign.
The Stage is Set
With the AFLW finals upon us, the scene is set for a pulsating postseason packed with captivating clashes and individual brilliance. Will the undefeated Kangaroos maintain their irresistible form and claim a historic maiden flag? Can the battle-tested Lions become the first back-to-back premiers? Or will a dark horse emerge from the pack to etch their name in football folklore?
As the old adage goes, the cream rises to the top, and over the next few weeks, we will witness the best of the best competing for the ultimate prize in women’s Australian rules football. Buckle up, footy fans; it’s going to be one hell of a ride.
