Where and when: RSEA Park, Saturday, August 30, 3.05pm (1.05pm AWST)
Last time we met: Euro-Yroke 2.8 (20) defeated by Waalitj Marawar 2.10 (22), round four, 2022.
Apart from a 2024 pre-season clash, Waalitj Marawar’s last meeting with Euro-Yroke came in 2022 when Waalitj Marawar claimed their first win of the season in a thriller, holding on for a two-point victory at Trevor Barker Beach Oval. Goals to Aimee Schmidt and Kellie Gibson helped edge Waalitj Marawar in front by half-time, before Emma Swanson, Dana Hooker and Bella Lewis drove the side with strong midfield performances. Ashton Hill’s courageous goal-saving smother in the final term typified the team’s resilience, as Waalitj defended grimly to secure a memorable triumph, their first ever win outside Western Australia.
What it means for Waalitj Marawar: After the heartbreak of last week’s narrow loss to Essendon, Waalitj Marawar will be determined to respond strongly and notch their second win of the season against Euro-Yroke. Remaining in Melbourne between rounds two and three has presented the group with a valuable chance to stay connected and focused, and a victory would provide a timely boost in confidence before returning home for a run of matches in Perth.
The stat: Waalitj Marawar and Euro-Yroke have only met once before in an official AFLW match, which resulted in a two-point win to the Waalitj.
Oppo in focus: Georgia Patrikios
Euro-Yroke midfielder Partrikios has played an important role in the first two rounds, notching up 26 touches against Kuwarna (Adelaide) in round one, followed by 19 touches and eight tackles last weekend against Narrm (Melbourne). The All-Australian is one of Euro-Yroke's most prolific on-ballers and Waalitj Marawar will need to focus on limiting her output around the ground.
It’s a big week for: Courtney Lindgren and Charlotte Riggs
Lindgren and Riggs will don the blue and gold on Saturday, both making their AFLW debuts. Lindgren joins the team as an injury replacement player, eager to show her talent and adaptability at the top level. Riggs, selected with pick No. 24 in the 2024 AFLW Draft has been recovering from a wrist injury sustained in the pre-season and is ready to make an impact. Both players’ energy and contributions will be important for Waalitj Marawar as they aim to secure a second win of the season and build momentum for the coming home games.
Big call: Ella Roberts will once again be Waalitj Marawar's attacking spearhead, aiming to add to her goal tally while showcasing the aerial brilliance that will earn her a second consecutive Mark of the Year nomination.
