Round 6 of the 2024 AFLW season is here.
We are officially beyond the halfway mark of the season. This week, we will see 12 AFLW matches between Tuesday and Sunday. This week 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.
A big match this weekend will be between Essendon and Sydney. Both teams have two wins and three losses, sit 9th and 11th on the ladder, and are only divided by percentage. If either side wants to play finals this year, it is a must-win game. Whoever wins will keep their season alive, with a loss making it very hard to make the top 8.
Another huge clash comes Sunday afternoon, with a blockbuster clash between Fremantle and Hawthorn. Both teams are in great form and setting a high standard amongst the competition. Fremantle and Hawthorn sit sixth and fourth, respectively, on the ladder, and both have four wins each, only split by percentage. This game should be a nail-biter and fierce from the start to finish as both teams push towards a top-four finish. This is a must-watch match.
Under the radar: Laura Stone
Laura Stone has been building in recent weeks, last weekend scoring her first goal in the AFLW. The youngster finished with three for the day in a breakout performance.
The 18-year-old has now hit her peak and shown what she is capable of. The young gun may fly under the radar this week but will be on rival watch if she can continue her scoreboard contribution. Stone will be an important figure for the Hawks as they enter the latter stages of the season as they push towards their first finals berth.
Before making her AFLW debut, Stone was a part of the U18 All-Australian team and known as a versatile player; the 18-year-old can play in any position on the field.
Stone is a player to watch out for and for the competition to be aware of as we edge closer to finals.
All eyes are on Melbourne.
Melbourne has had an unexpectedly dismal season, winning just one game so far this year. They have been one of the best teams since the AFLW started back in 2017 and have always been near the pinnacle. They are in unfamiliar territory this year, sitting 16th on the ladder and likely to miss finals.
The 2022 Premiers are far from their best this season and have been crumbling under pressure.
While it's likely their season is over, there is still an opportunity to finish their campaign on a good note, causing some chaos to some teams at the pointy end of the ladder.
All eyes will be on the Demons to see if they can notch a win this week and show some positive signs.
Needs to step up: Alyce Parker.
Alyce Parker must step up this weekend. The former two-time All-Australian has been lacking this season and far from her best. In the past three weeks, Parker has only averaged 18 disposals, well below her career average.
The 24-year-old must step up this weekend; if the Giants want to have any chance to just even the top 8, they need to win all their remaining games. The midfielder is crucial for this, being an elite player who has performed well below par to this point.
The Giants need Parker to lift this weekend as GWS go in as favourites against the Demons.
It starts with Parker in the middle, using her leadership and experience to get the Giants going from the start.
Player in the hot form: Madison Prespakis
Madison Prespakis is in hot form after a slow start to the season, performing back to her best in Round 5.
The midfielder had 32 disposals and kicked one goal; the most influential piece for the Bombers' win, keeping their finals campaign alive.
On Wednesday, it is a must-win match for the Bombers, hosting Sydney as they look to reach finals this season. Prespakis is in hot form after last weekend and will play a huge role on Wednesday night.
The Swans midfield needs to be mindful of the three-time All-Australian. Otherwise, the 23-year-old will cause all sorts of damage.
