The Fremantle Dockers are heading into their upcoming elimination final with strong momentum after securing a hard-fought victory over the Western Bulldogs. This impressive 14-point win at Fremantle Oval marks the Dockers’ first home final since 2020, solidifying their place in the finals and showcasing their determination as they prepare to face Essendon next Saturday.
In this clash, the Dockers demonstrated their competitive spirit, clinching a third consecutive win with a final score of 4.11 (35) to 3.3 (21). While they had already secured fifth place prior to the match, the focus was clearly on maintaining winning form. They took the lead into the final quarter, where their only goal came after a series of missed opportunities earlier in the game. Nevertheless, their performance was solid, particularly in the areas of forward entries and midfield connection, which are crucial as they head into their first AFLW finals in three years.
Mim Strom stood out with a career-high 30 disposals and eight clearances, earning recognition as the best player on the field. Her performance was complemented by the strong contributions of Aisling McCarthy, who secured 29 disposals and played a key role in midfield alongside teammates Gabbie Newton and Dana East. The Dockers dominated clearances, winning 42 to 21, and although their early efficiency was lacking—having registered three behinds in the first quarter—they controlled much of the game.
The Dockers’ early struggles to capitalize on their dominance allowed the Bulldogs to take an unexpected lead after quick goals from Isabelle Pritchard and Heidi Woodley. However, Walyalup rallied in the second term, finally converting their forward entries into goals as Ebony Antonio and Tunisha Kikoak found the target. By halftime, the Dockers had managed to turn their game around, taking a six-point lead into the break, thanks to their relentless effort and teamwork.
As the match progressed, both teams faced challenges. The Bulldogs remained competitive, with a notable challenge from ruck Alice Edmonds against Strom. Despite Edmonds achieving 34 hit-outs, it was Strom’s adaptability and skill in open play that shone through, allowing her to outperform in general play. On the other hand, Tunisha Kikoak, who joined the Dockers as a replacement player, showcased her versatility by excelling as a forward and making significant contributions since stepping in for an injured teammate.
Looking ahead, the Dockers are eager to maintain their winning streak as they prepare for their first finals appearance since season seven. Their upcoming match against Essendon marks a pivotal moment for the team, especially as they return to Fremantle Oval with the support of their home crowd. While the Bulldogs’ season concludes without a finals berth, they displayed commendable resilience in their late-season performances, leaving fans hopeful for future seasons.