The AFLW is closing in on Finals and there are currently 8 players with New Zealand Heritage, sitting in the top 8, six of which are in the top 4, and with only 2 rounds left to go in the home and away season, plenty of Kiwi talent is set to be on display in the Finals
Melbourne – 1st
Melbourne have continued last years form as premiership winners into this season, and are on track to win the minor premiership. Lauren Pearce, the teams leading ruck, is a talented athlete. Coming form a basketball background, the NZ Heritage star is one of the toughest players to come up against in the ruck, and is one of the most consistent performers in the comp. With only 2 rounds to go, Melbourne are strong favourites to finish the home and away season on top
Adelaide Crows – 2nd
The Adelaide Crows have been of the best teams since the inaugural AFLW season, and have continued their dominance across each season, having won 3 premierships and being runners-up in another. The Crows have two New Zealand Heritage player that feature in their squad. 2019 Top Goalkicker Stevie-Lee Thompson, is a key talent for the Crows, slotting into whatever position they need her to play, and she also features in the teams leadership group. Najwa Allen is also a key player for the Crows, and her contributions as a defender, is one of the many reasons why the Crows are currently sitting at the top of the Ladder.
North Melbourne – 3rd
North Melbourne has also been a strong and consistent competitor since their first season in the AFLW. They are yet to win a premiership, but with such a talented group of players, it is only a matter of time. Jasmine Garner and Tahlia Randall both have New Zealand Heritage, and both play pivotal roles for North Melbourne. Garner is often regarded as one of the best players in the AFLW, with the midfielder currently sitting 2nd in the league in disposals, clearances and kicks and in the top 20 for tackling. Randall is a key forward for the side and is having a great season in front of goals, currently sitting 4th in the goal kicking ladder.
Brisbane – 4th
Brisbane is another team that is consistently one of the league’s best sides, and this season is no different. Brisbane has a history of having NZ talent in their team, with 6 kiwis having played for the lions. Dee Heslop, who was born in Auckland, is another consistent performer and with 40 games experience under her belt, the strong defender has a long future ahead of her, and after just falling short of a premiership win last season, Dee will be putting her best foot forward, to get another shot at the title.
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