Carlton and Melbourne Advance to AFLW Preliminary Finals, Set Stage for Blockbuster Matchups
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Melbourne and Carlton have secured their places in the 2025 AFLW Preliminary Finals, setting up compelling clashes against North Melbourne and Brisbane respectively. The Demons overcame Adelaide in a thrilling contest, while the Blues delivered a dominant performance to dispatch Hawthorn, continuing their notable resurgence.
Demons Clinch Third Preliminary Final Appearance
A vintage performance from Melbourne captain Kate Hore propelled the Demons to a hard-fought 9.6 (60) to 7.7 (49) victory over Adelaide at Princes Park on Saturday. This marks Melbourne’s third Preliminary Final appearance in six seasons.The game was a seesaw battle, with Melbourne initially surging to a 14-point lead in the first quarter, only to see Adelaide respond and take a 13-point advantage in the second. Tho, the Demons rallied in the second half, ultimately securing the win with six of the next seven goals.
Hore was instrumental, finishing with 26 disposals, seven marks, and three crucial goals. She showcased her skill and composure, kicking a pivotal goal in the third quarter and another early in the final term to regain the lead for Melbourne.Eliza McNamara (25 disposals) and Shelley heath (24 disposals) also provided significant contributions for the winners. Adelaide’s Ebony Marinoff was a standout with 27 possessions, nine tackles, and a goal, but the Crows’ forward inefficiency ultimately proved costly. Despite dominating inside 50s (46-31), Adelaide struggled to convert opportunities into scores.
The result brings an end to adelaide’s streak of five consecutive Preliminary Final appearances and marks a disappointing finish to the tenure of dual premiership coach Matthew Clarke.
Blues Demolish Hawthorn in Emphatic victory
carlton continued their impressive form with a commanding 46-point victory over Hawthorn,11.13 (79) to 4.9 (33). The Blues’ dominant performance secured their second Preliminary Finals berth and signaled a significant step forward in their growth. Carlton established control early, piling on 31 first-quarter points off the back of a commanding 18-3 inside 50 differential.
The Hawks,hampered by the absence of key tall forwards Lucy Wales,Elli Symonds,and Emily Everist,struggled to contain Carlton’s attack. Blue Mia Austin opened the scoring with a strong mark and accurate set shot, setting the tone for the Blues’ dominant display.Mimi Hill was electric with 27 disposals and a goal,while Maddy Guerin laid eleven tackles. First-year stars Poppy Scholz (16 disposals) and Sophie McKay (three goals) continued to impress, demonstrating the Blues’ promising future.
Hawthorn’s Eliza West was forced to leave the game in the third quarter after failing a HIA, adding to the team’s injury woes. Tilly Lucas-Rodd led the Hawks with 24 disposals and six tackles, but they were unable to overcome Carlton’s relentless pressure and accuracy. A humorous moment occurred when Sophie McKay doubled down on a previous goal celebration,faking an elbow injury after a goal,much to the amusement of onlookers.
Preliminary Finals Fixture
The 2025 AFLW Preliminary Finals are scheduled as follows (all times AEDT):
- First Preliminary final: Saturday, November 22nd, 7.35pm at Brighton Homes Arena – Brisbane v Carlton
- Second Preliminary Final: Saturday, November 22nd, 3.05pm at Ikon Park – North Melbourne v melbourne
Carlton will face a tough challenge against Brisbane,a team they previously defeated by 14 points earlier in the season. Meanwhile, Melbourne will confront the formidable North Melbourne, who boast a record 25-game winning streak and haven’t lost a match in 714 days.
These Preliminary Finals promise to be captivating contests, with both Carlton and Melbourne aiming to advance to the Grand Final and compete for the ultimate prize.
