Title: Mikayla Morrison Makes Long-Awaited Return for Fremantle Against Geelong
Fremantle has announced its lineup for the upcoming match against Geelong, featuring a highly anticipated return after nearly two and a half years. Forward Mikayla Morrison is set to take the field again, marking her comeback after enduring two significant ACL injuries over the past two seasons.
Morrison, who was selected as the 30th pick in the 2020 NAB AFLW Draft, made her debut in the fourth round of Season 6 against the Western Bulldogs. At just 22 years old, she has accumulated four games in the AFLW but has faced considerable challenges, including rupturing her left ACL in 2022 and her right ACL in 2023. Now, she has been named on the interchange bench for the match against Geelong, signaling a significant milestone in her career.
The announcement of Morrison’s return came from AFLW Senior Physiotherapist Brett Fletcher, who shared the news with the team following their captain’s run at GMHBA Stadium on Monday afternoon. “It’s a privilege to wear the jumper, and nobody has demonstrated that more than Morro. I’m thrilled to see her back on the field,” Fletcher expressed, highlighting the emotional significance of this moment.
In terms of team adjustments, Morrison steps in for Makaela Tuhakaraina, who has been omitted and is listed as an emergency. Additionally, Gabby O’Sullivan returns from a one-match suspension, taking the place of Dana East, who is sidelined due to a concussion sustained in a previous match against St Kilda. O’Sullivan is expected to contribute significantly in the midfield, following an impressive performance in week four, where she recorded 16 disposals, nine tackles, and three goals.
Coach Lisa Webb provided an update regarding East’s condition, acknowledging the unfortunate nature of the concussion but also expressing confidence in O’Sullivan’s ability to step up. “Easty has been performing well, but Gabby is the right choice to bring into the lineup,” Webb stated. Laura Pugh will take on the captaincy role in Ange Stannett’s absence, who will be managing the coaching responsibilities from the bench.
With the match set to kick off at 5:15 PM WST, fans can look forward to a thrilling game, broadcast live on Channel 7 and Fox Footy, as well as streamed on Kayo Sports. The clash against the Geelong Cats marks an important moment not only for Morrison but for the entire Fremantle team as they seek to capitalize on this momentum.