Eagles Make Historic AFLW Finals Appearance
Daisy Pearce's West Coast Eagles have qualified for the AFLW finals for the first time after the Sydney Swans unexpectedly lost by three points to Essendon at Coffs Harbour.
Swans' Defeat Secures Eagles' Spot
The Swans needed a win against Essendon to guarantee their place in the finals but were defeated 2.2 (14) to 1.5 (11). Despite starting as the favorites against an injury-hit Bombers team with eight consecutive losses, Sydney could not hold on.
Key Moments in the Decisive Match
- Essendon led 14-2 early in the final quarter after Sophie Alexander scored a goal.
- The Swans narrowed the gap to three points with four minutes remaining when Zippy Fish kicked their first goal.
- The Bombers maintained their lead to the final siren, sealing the upset victory.
Other Notable AFLW Results
- Port Adelaide defeated Greater Western Sydney Giants 11.15 (81) to 3.6 (24).
- Melbourne Demons beat Geelong Cats 9.5 (59) to 6.9 (45), ending hopes of a win in Geelong for three retiring players.
- The bottom-ranked Gold Coast Suns triumphed over Richmond Tigers 5.9 (39) to 3.7 (25).
"The Bombers led 14-2 early in the final quarter when Sophie Alexander tumbled through a goal. The Swans cut the margin back to three points with four minutes remaining when Zippy Fish registered their first goal of the match, setting up a grandstand finish."
West Coast needed Essendon to win after losing to Carlton the previous night to secure their historic finals berth.
Author’s Summary: West Coast Eagles have reached the AFLW finals for the first time, capitalizing on Sydney Swans’ narrow loss to Essendon, marking a historic milestone for the club.