This weekend marks a significant moment for the Brisbane Lions’ AFLW team as Dee Heslop returns to the field after a lengthy absence. Heslop, who last played in Round 10 of 2023, will make her comeback in the highly anticipated match against the Sydney Swans at Brighton Homes Arena on Sunday afternoon.
Heslop’s return comes after she was sidelined during the Lions’ successful finals run in 2023 due to suspension and faced an injury setback with a calf strain in the pre-season of 2024. Her presence on the field is eagerly awaited as the team gears up to face the Swans, who will be a tough opponent in this Week 9 clash.
In a lineup adjustment, Heslop steps in for Dakota Davidson, who is currently following concussion protocols after the Lions’ defeat to Geelong in Week Eight. Additionally, the match will mark a milestone for Eleanor Hartill, who is set to play her 25th AFLW game. Hartill joined the Lions after a successful stint with West Coast and has been a consistent performer since her debut in Week 2.
The Lions also faced some changes in their squad, with Luka Yoshida-Martin pulling up with knee soreness, leading to her replacement by Rania Crozier, who has been named as an emergency alongside Ellie Hampson and Kate Lutkins. These adjustments are crucial as the team aims for a strong performance in their upcoming match.
Scheduled for 4:05 PM at Brighton Homes Arena in Ipswich, QLD, the game against the Swans will be broadcast live on channels including 7Two, Fox Footy, and Kayo. For fans unable to attend in person, the Lions’ social media platforms offer a behind-the-scenes perspective, allowing supporters to engage with the team in a unique way as they prepare for this exciting matchup.