The Sydney Swans secured a crucial victory against the West Coast Eagles, keeping their aspirations for the AFLW finals alive. The match concluded with a score of 6.7 (43) to 3.8 (26) at Henson Park on March 16, 2024. While the win was significant, it was overshadowed by concerns over the fitness of forward Cynthia Hamilton, who sustained an ankle injury early in the first quarter.
Hamilton was injured following a front-on collision with Eagles players Sanne Bakker. She was seen in visible distress on the ground and required assistance to leave the field, ultimately being substituted at quarter-time. The Swans were already missing key players Chloe Molloy and Sofia Hurley due to injuries, which heightened concerns regarding their depth heading into the final rounds of the season.
Despite these challenges, Rebecca Privitelli made a remarkable return to form, scoring three goals from just nine possessions. This performance was particularly noteworthy as it marked only her fourth game of the season after a three-week absence. Coach Scott Gowans was likely pleased with her contributions, especially given the team’s injury woes.
The Swans quickly adapted to the loss of Hamilton, with Privitelli kicking her first goal of the season shortly after, helping the team establish an eight-point lead at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter saw both teams struggling to score, with each team managing only one goal, and the Swans maintaining a slender lead.
As the match progressed, the Swans began to assert their dominance. Privitelli’s third goal in the third quarter extended their lead to 23 points, putting the team in a strong position heading into the final term. West Coast’s Kellie Gibson managed to score the first goal of the last quarter, but it was insufficient to ignite a comeback.
In addition to Privitelli’s standout performance, Laura Gardiner marked her 50th game with a strong showing, accumulating 30 disposals. Midfielder Tanya Kennedy also contributed significantly with seven clearances, bolstering the Swans’ midfield efforts.
With this win, the Sydney Swans now find themselves in contention for the eighth position in the league, joining three other teams on 24 points. The West Coast Eagles remain in sixth place, holding a slight advantage on percentage.
As the season progresses, the Swans will need to closely monitor Hamilton’s recovery and the status of their other injured players to maximize their chances in the upcoming rounds.
