Season 7 of AFLW is almost over, and it has been a spectacular showcase of the talent and growth taking place in women’s footy. 4 Teams remain in the hunt for the premiership title and each of those teams feature 2 kiwis.
Brisbane Lions vs Western Crows
Last time these two teams faced off in round 8, the Brisbane Lions showed their class and asserted their claim as favourites, beating the reigning premiers by 22 points. Kiwi, Jesse Wardlaw, who is the golden boot winner for season 7 has been a standout performer for the lions all season. The key forwards accuracy from the boot has made her a lethal target up front, with a goal kicking accuracy of 66.7%. She is joined by fellow New Zealand Heritage Player Dee Heslop, who has been quick to prove her worth after being picked up in the lions last draft class, slotting comfortably into the teams defensive unit.
The Crows also feature some goal Kiwi goal kicking talent of their own. Stevie-Lee Thompson was the top goalkicker in the 2019 season. She has played in the midfield for most of the season, but can still be a danger in front when given the opportunity. One of the teams’ leaders she continues to be one of the most consistent performers on the park. Najwa Allen also plays a pivotal role in the backs for the Crows, being one of the key components to the crows having on of the best defensive records in the competition.
The game starts at 9:40pm on Friday 18th November, Sky Sport 2
Melbourne vs North Melbourne
Much Like Brisbane, Melbourne has been tearing through the competition, coming second on the ladder by only 0.3%. Lauren Pearce has again cemented herself as one of the best rucks in AFLW. The nimble ruck acts as an extra midfielder, giving Melbourne an advantage over their competitors.
North Melbourne continues to reap the benefits that Jasmine Garner provides them week in and week out. Garner is continually listed among the top performers every round, being picked as the AFL Coaches Associations AFLW Champion Player of the Year.
Tahlia Randall is also a key figure at North Melbourne, a key tall forward with tremendous aerial marking ability makes her a nightmare for defenders.
The game starts at 5:10pm on Saturday 19th November, Sky Sport 1
