Ruthless Roos march into prelim after keeping Hawks goalless
North Melbourne secured a dominant 39-point victory over Hawthorn in the AFLW qualifying final, advancing towards their second premiership. The Kangaroos defeated a goalless Hawks team with a final score of 5.12 (42) to 0.3 (3) at Ikon Park, marking the lowest score ever recorded in an AFLW final.
Match Details and Line-ups
The Kangaroos faced the Hawks for the second time in a week. North Melbourne reinforced their squad by adding Vikki Wall and Kate Shierlaw following their previous win. Hawthorn adjusted their tall players, bringing Jess Vukic in for the injured Ellie Symonds.
Challenging Weather and Game Conditions
The match was played under inconsistent weather—a mix of humidity, wind, dryness, and rain. These conditions created a slippery surface, combined with the pressure of finals, resulting in a fast-paced and error-filled start.
Player Impact
Erika O’Shea consistently posed a threat from half-back, contributing significantly to the Roos’ strong performance and their progression to the preliminary final.
North Melbourne has continued its seemingly inevitable march to a second premiership with a 39-point qualifying final win over a goalless Hawthorn.
It is the lowest score in an AFLW final.
Author's summary: North Melbourne dominated Hawthorn in difficult conditions, delivering a historic shutout and advancing confidently to the AFLW preliminary final.