It’s mixed news for Hawthorn ahead of its semi-final date with Carlton, while Melbourne has received a boost for its own do-or-die final. The AFLW semi-finals are set to be a thrilling display of talent and strategy as teams make crucial adjustments to their lineups.
Hawks captain Emily Bates will make a remarkable comeback from a serious shoulder injury, which required surgery, to bolster the side’s midfield. This move is crucial as Hawthorn aims to avoid a second straight-sets exit in as many seasons. Youngsters Hayley McLaughlin and Sophie Butterworth have also been brought back, while forward Aine McDonagh has been named despite a knee issue picked up last week.
Hawthorn’s Strategic Adjustments
Controversial mid-season replacement signing Nat Exon has been dropped, and winger Kaitlyn Ashmore hasn’t been able to overcome a calf injury, so she also comes out of the side. Key defender Emily Everist will miss the game due to concussion. These changes reflect a strategic shift as the Hawks prepare to face a formidable Carlton side.
The announcement comes as Hawthorn seeks to strengthen its lineup against a Carlton team that boasts a clean bill of health, allowing them to field an unchanged lineup. This stability contrasts sharply with Hawthorn’s forced adjustments, highlighting the challenges the team faces in maintaining consistency.
Melbourne’s Tactical Boost
As anticipated, Eden Zanker is out of Melbourne’s side due to a concussion sustained in Sunday’s loss to Brisbane. The club will rely on Tayla Harris, Georgia Gall, and Alyssa Bannan in attack. All-Australian squad member Maeve Chaplin hasn’t been able to make it back from a hamstring injury, but dynamic Irish defender Sinead Goldrick is a handy inclusion as she returns from an eye injury.
The club has also opted to swap utility Jemma Rigoni for young defender Laela Ebert. These changes are designed to fortify Melbourne’s defense while maintaining their attacking prowess. The team’s adaptability will be tested as they face Adelaide, who remains unchanged after their victory over St Kilda.
Adelaide and Carlton’s Steady Lineups
Adelaide youngster Brooke Boileau will line up in Saturday’s semi-final, despite copping a heavy knock to her leg during last week’s win over St Kilda. Notably, premiership player Hannah Munyard is listed in the emergencies, unable to break back into the side after a round one ankle injury pushed her to the sidelines. This decision underscores the depth of talent in Adelaide’s squad as they prepare to face Melbourne.
Carlton’s clean bill of health has meant an unchanged lineup for the exciting young side. This consistency is in stark contrast to their opposition, Hawthorn, who has been forced to name a top-up in its trio of emergencies. The stability of Carlton’s lineup could prove advantageous as they face a Hawthorn team dealing with multiple changes.
Looking Ahead to the Semi-Finals
The AFLW semi-finals promise to deliver intense competition as teams vie for a spot in the finals. The strategic changes and player comebacks highlight the dynamic nature of the league, where adaptability and depth are key to success. Fans can expect a showcase of resilience and skill as the teams take to the field.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15
Melbourne v Adelaide at Ikon Park, 1.05pm AEDT
MELBOURNE
In: S.Goldrick, L.Ebert
Out: E.Zanker (concussion), J.Rigoni (omitted)
ADELAIDE
In: Nil
Out: Nil
Hawthorn v Carlton at Ikon Park, 7.15pm AEDT
HAWTHORN
In: E.Bates, H.McLaughlin, S.Butterworth
Out: E.Everist (concussion), K.Ashmore (injured), N.Exon (omitted)
CARLTON
As the semi-finals approach, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a weekend of high-stakes football. The outcomes will not only determine who advances to the finals but also set the stage for future strategic decisions in the AFLW landscape.
