North Melbourne has completed an undefeated season by securing their first AFLW premiership at Ikon Park, avenging last year’s defeat to Brisbane with a 6.3 (39) to 1.3 (9) victory in front of a crowd of 12,122.
The Kangaroos’ banner read “Eyes on the prize,” and it was their dominant first half that sealed the game, despite a tense second half where the Lions were held scoreless. At the W Awards on Monday night, seven-time All-Australian Jasmine Garner received her first votes in week five, a testament to her quiet yet impactful presence. Garner earned two medals for her first premiership and Best on Ground performance, with an impressive 35 disposals, 22 contested, 13 tackles, and 10 clearances.
Brisbane’s Ally Anderson, Shannon Campbell, and captain Bre Koenen were all playing in their 16th final, but early nerves were evident, leading to a scrappy start. The Lions had six stoppages in their forward 50 but failed to capitalize. A precise kick by Garner found young Tess Craven, who despite a corked back, kicked the first goal of the game in the seventh minute. Craven’s crucial marks throughout the match alleviated pressure on her team.
Alice O’Loughlin extended the lead to 17 points with two successive goals. A late hit by Emma King awarded a free kick to Ellie Hampson, who narrowed the margin to 11 points at quarter time. North captain Emma Kearney, now a two-time premiership winner, showcased her resilience after a seven-week hamstring injury layoff, leading the Kangaroos’ disposal count at halftime with 13, and gaining 274m.
North Melbourne struggled to convert their chances in the second quarter, despite an early goal by Vikki Wall. The ball remained in North’s forward half, pressuring Brisbane’s defense. Despite the 17-point halftime margin, the Lions fought hard, with Ally Anderson recording 16 disposals and five clearances, and Courtney Hodder leading in tackles with eight.
The third quarter was a tense battle, with both sides desperate for a breakthrough. Lions ruck Tahlia Hickie briefly left the field with an elbow injury but returned. Only one point was scored, a rushed behind for the Lions. North had a chance to seal the game when Kearney found O’Loughlin, but her kick to Kate Shierlaw was intercepted by Lions vice-captain Nat Grider.
In the fourth quarter, Jenna Bruton orchestrated a quick play that led to Wall’s goal, extending the lead to 23 points. Wall’s impact was significant, especially after missing last season to pursue rugby sevens for Ireland. In a blow to Brisbane, Jade Ellenger suffered a leg injury and had to be assisted off the field.
North Melbourne’s victory makes them the first expansion team to win a grand final, a relief for AFL head office. Star recruit Libby Birch has now won three premierships across three clubs, all against the Lions.
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