North Melbourne Advances to AFLW Preliminary Final with 25-Game Winning Streak
North Melbourne is just two wins away from completing an undefeated AFLW season after overcoming Hawthorn in a qualifying final on Friday night. Despite a lackluster attacking performance, the Roos' overall skill and composure outmatched the injury-hit Hawks in front of 4,392 fans at Ikon Park in Carlton.
The Roos extended their winning streak to 25 consecutive games, dating back to last season, securing a 5.12 (42) to 0.3 (3) victory. North Melbourne will now rest in preparation for their next match, while Hawthorn faces the challenge of overcoming injuries before the elimination semi-final next weekend.
Coach Darren Crocker's Reflections
“That’s probably be one area that we’ll look at. Their ability to not just defend inside the defensive 50m arc, but also put pressure on the ball carrier - sometimes the ball carrier was under pressure and they couldn’t get the ball in the areas they wanted to. We could have been a little bit better with where we put the ball at times.”
Crocker praised his team’s patience during the game but noted the need to improve their forward play after missing several scoring opportunities.
Key Players and Injuries
- North Melbourne’s standout performers included Libby Birch, Jasmine Garner, Ash Riddell, and Erika O’Shea, showing strength across the field during a fierce contest.
- Hawthorn’s best players were Eliza West, Laura Stone, Tilly Lucas-Rodd, and Aileen Gilroy.
- Kaitlyn Ashmore sustained a calf injury and was unable to return in the final quarter.
- Aine McDonagh played through what appeared to be a painful knee injury.
The Hawks will hope these injuries do not affect their chances next weekend.
Author’s summary: North Melbourne maintains dominance with a 25-game winning streak, advancing closer to an undefeated season despite offensive struggles and key injuries impacting both sides.