Sport. AFLW. Fremantle Dockers v Ricmond Tigers at Fremantle Oval. Docker Hayley Miller celebrates kicking a goal.
UPDATE: The Fremantle Dockers have kept their flickering AFLW finals hopes alive with a commanding 58-14 victory over the Richmond Tigers at Fremantle Oval earlier today. This crucial win leaves Fremantle mathematically in contention for the top eight as the league heads into its final stretch.
In a thrilling match, Fremantle showcased their offensive strength, spearheaded by standout performances from Hayley Miller and Aisling McCarthy. Miller dominated the first half, scoring two goals and contributing to six score involvements, proving to be a key player for the Dockers. Meanwhile, McCarthy added two goals and recorded a remarkable 32 disposals, helping her team maintain pressure throughout.
Despite the impressive win, Fremantle’s challenge remains steep as they sit in 10th place, needing significant help to secure a finals berth. Their current percentage of 82.2 is significantly lower than that of their direct competitors. If Carlton defeats GWS on Sunday, Fremantle must overcome the seventh-placed Crows in Adelaide next week and rely on losses from rivals West Coast and Sydney.
The match started with Richmond taking an early lead, thanks to a classy goal from Isabel Bacon. However, Fremantle quickly regained control, with McCarthy dominating early on, recording four inside 50s and securing multiple score involvements. Miller’s impact was felt immediately as she scored the Dockers’ first goal, leading to a shift in momentum.
Fremantle’s defense was impenetrable in the second quarter, holding Richmond scoreless and preventing them from entering their forward 50. Emma O’Driscoll and Ash Brazill combined for an impressive 13 intercepts, allowing the Dockers to build a commanding 31-point lead by halftime.
Despite their lead, Fremantle struggled to increase their margin in the second half, with only a single point registered in the third term. However, they bounced back in the final quarter, with Georgie Brisbane and McCarthy adding crucial goals to seal the victory.
As the Dockers prepare for their next challenge against the Crows, all eyes will be on their performance and the outcomes of their rivals in the coming week. This win keeps the dream of finals football alive—now, Fremantle must capitalize on the momentum and hope for favorable results elsewhere in the league.
Stay tuned for more updates as the AFLW season approaches its climax.
