Fremantle secures a decisive win against Adelaide, while Collingwood finally finds form with its first victory of the AFLW season.
On the weekend of September 24-27, the AFLW saw Fremantle celebrate a significant victory over Adelaide, while Collingwood managed to secure its first win of the season.
Fremantle's Impressive Performance
Fremantle’s women made a statement during their match at Unley Oval, outscoring Adelaide 28-0 in the opening quarter. That sort of dominance is rare in any sport, particularly in a competition as competitive as the AFLW. They showcased a blend of strategic play and relentless effort, ultimately finishing with a convincing score of 9.6 (60) to 5.5 (35). This win marks a turning point for the team, catapulting Fremantle into the AFLW top eight and interrupting a troubling losing streak against Adelaide. The Dockers had been at the mercy of a remarkable 9-1 record that the Crows held over them.
What’s striking is the contrast in performance between the Fremantle women and their male counterparts during the recent AFL grand final. While the men’s side faltered, the women’s team showcased resolute defensive play and an aggressive attacking strategy. Despite a valiant effort from Adelaide, who recorded three goals around three-quarter time, they were never able to recover and never cut the deficit to within 25 points of the Dockers. The fallout for Adelaide could be substantial, as they are now grappling with a 3-4 record, challenging their aspirations for a strong finish this season.
Collingwood Breaks Through
In another match on Sunday, Collingwood (1-6) faced GWS (1-6) in a hard-fought battle, which both teams desperate to turn their seasons around. The game was tightly contested, indicative of how even the competition can be at times. The Giants led at several points, creating tension and uncertainty. However, Collingwood managed to take control in the final quarter, showcasing grit and determination that had been absent in earlier matches. The final score of 4.10 (34) to 3.7 (25) reflects the low-scoring nature of the contest, but that scoreboard doesn’t tell the entire story. Collingwood registered 18 more inside 50s and secured 16 more contested possessions, suggesting a shift in offensive strategy that could bode well for their remaining matches.
The win, while modest in points, represents a crucial morale boost for Collingwood. If you’re working in this space, you’d recognize the psychological impact that comes with ending a losing streak. This victory, even if it comes against a fellow struggling team, gives Collingwood a crucial foundation upon which to build, pushing them to avoid a bottom finish.
Other Round Highlights
The round also featured Sydney defeating Brisbane 5.7 (37) to 3.5 (23), maintaining the Swans' position within the top four while leaving the Lions with a disappointing 2-5 record. The match revealed strategic depth as the home side held firm despite a resilient effort from Brisbane, particularly in the third quarter. Sydney’s ability to keep their composure under pressure exemplifies their mounting confidence, which could be pivotal as the season progresses.
Meanwhile, Gold Coast continued its strong run by overcoming St Kilda 10.9 (69) to 6.3 (39). After trailing at halftime, the Suns came out firing in the second half, scoring eight goals to one. Such a turnaround not only secured a vital victory, it also pushed Gold Coast up to sixth place on the AFLW ladder, showcasing their aspiration to be a serious contender this season.
Implications and Future Outlook
The recent matches have showcased a dynamic shift in form for several teams, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the AFLW season. The results could have significant implications for both ends of the ladder. For teams like Fremantle and Gold Coast, recent victories create momentum—an invaluable asset in a long season where confidence can swing dramatically from week to week.
And yet, for teams like Adelaide and Brisbane, the pressure is mounting. A disappointing run of form raises questions about whether adjustments are needed—either in tactics or personnel. If they continue to falter, there could be drastic shifts in both coaching staff and player positions, as organizations review their strategies heading into future seasons.
This resurgence on the part of Fremantle and Gold Coast gets fans excited, but will they maintain their momentum? That’s the million-dollar question. As we move deeper into the AFLW season, every match becomes significantly more pressing. The potential playoffs are now on the horizon, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. That’s exactly what makes this sport exhilarating—and intensely competitive.
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