The Dockers are riding a wave of success, having secured a critical victory as they head into their elimination final against Essendon. Their latest win, a hard-fought 14-point triumph over the Western Bulldogs at Fremantle Oval, marks their third consecutive victory, setting an encouraging tone for the playoffs.
Entering the match with their fifth-place position already assured, the Dockers focused on maintaining momentum. They triumphed with a score of 4.11 (35) to 3.3 (21), demonstrating their readiness for the upcoming finals, which will take place this Saturday. The team displayed a strong performance, particularly in the final home-and-away game of the season, where they managed to outlast the Bulldogs despite some wayward kicking.
The Dockers took the lead into the final quarter, holding a narrow five-point advantage. Though they only managed to score one goal in the last period, their overall performance showcased their strategic dominance. The team exhibited a high-pressure style of play, significantly outpacing their opponents with 40 forward entries compared to the Bulldogs’ 16. This strong connection between the midfield and half-forward lines was crucial as they gear up for their first AFLW finals appearance in three years.
Mim Strom was a standout player, delivering an exceptional performance that saw her accumulate a career-high 30 disposals and eight clearances. Her ability to control the game elevated the Dockers’ efforts, especially as they prepare for the finals. Aisling McCarthy also played a vital role, contributing 29 disposals, eight clearances, and ten inside 50s. Alongside her were Gabbie Newton and Dana East, who consistently supported the midfield, leading to a dominant clearance statistic of 42-21 in their favor.
Despite their earlier struggles to convert opportunities into goals, the Dockers began the match with strong intentions. They could have built an early lead but were thwarted by inefficient kicking, registering three behinds in the opening quarter. The Bulldogs capitalized on their few chances, scoring two quick