Round 7 of the 2024 AFLW season has arrived.
This week, we will see 12 AFLW matches between Tuesday and Sunday in what is a huge round of footy as we approach the crunch end of the season, with do-or-die scenarios for many teams wanting to feature in finals in 2024.ย
A highly anticipated match this weekend is Hawthorn against West Coast in a crucial top eight clash. A win for the Hawks would be pivotal in their push for a top four finish, as they are two games in front of the Eagles. On the other hand, West Coast need to win to solidify their position in the top eight. Hawthorn are facing a number of injuries, which boosts the Eagles' chances and gives them a key opportunity to distance themselves from the teams they sit below them on the ladder.
Another exciting matchup takes place on Saturday afternoon with the Queensland derby between Brisbane and Gold Coast. The two teams are having very different seasonsโBrisbane sits at the top of the ladder, sitting second with only one loss, while Gold Coast remains winless at the bottom. However, form often goes out the window in rivalry games, where there's always extra motivation. Gold Coast will be eager to spoil the Lions' party and cause an upset, while Brisbane will look to assert their dominance with a convincing win, proving they're the team to beat.
Under the radar: Niamh Martinย
Niamh Martin is flying under the radar as she is part of a talented group of footballers at the Roos. The young Irishwoman arrived at Arden Street at the start of 2023, debuting last year at Round 7.
The 23-year-old has played five games for North Melbourne this season and kicked five goals, averaging a goal a game.
Last week, she had a dominant performance, kicking two goals and having seven tackles, showing her forward pressure. Martin has become an important figure in the Roos' forward line.
Only having 12 games of AFLW experience, she flies under the radar, but each game she plays, she only gets bigger and will be a huge asset for the Roos as they go deep into the season.
North Melbourne host the Swans this weekend, and Sydney's defence needs to be mindful, otherwise, Martin could take advantage of the opportunity and impact on the scoreboard.
Needs to step up: The GWS Giantsย
The GWS Giants must step up this weekend after a disappointing start to the season. While they aren't in finals contention, they can have a strong end to the season and cause some upsets for those teams pushing towards finals.
The Giants have a strong round this weekend when they take on St Kilda and Adelaide, though there is no pressure on them to have a massive performance. Both teams are in finals contention and a win for GWS could hammer their rivals' run towards finals.
Having a solid end to the season for the Giants will be crucial for their success moving forward as a club and reflecting and improving for the years to come.
They must lift this weekend and produce a more all-around performance by being more competitive.
Player in hot form: Aisling McCarthy
McCarthy is in hot form and having a breakout season at her new club. McCarthy has managed many best-on-ground performances and has become an important player for the Dockers as a midfielder.
The former Gaelic footballer is performing well above the level she has played in previous years. McCarthy is averaging 22 disposals, compared to her 14 disposals, 7.8 tackles and four clearances mean.
The 28-year-old had her best performance of her career last round with 28 disposals, one goal and six tackles.
McCarthy will be an essential player for the Dockers as they push towards finals and finish off the home and away season.
This weekend, when Fremantle host Carlton, the Blues must be mindful of McCarthy, otherwise, she will be damaging and her form is only going from strength to strength each week.
The midfielder still has a lot more to give this season and is arguably one of the most improved players this year.
