AFLW action returns to Mars

IT will be fight or flight as the dogs and hawks land on Mars for a big clash this weekend.

Round two AFLW action between the Western Bulldogs and Hawthorn Hawks will take place at Mars Stadium this Sunday 10 September from 1.05pm.

Bulldogs key defender Katie Lynch said the team has a fondness and familiarity with the ground, and the red, white and blue-centric atmosphere Ballarat fans create, having played more games there last year during the Whitten Oval upgrade.

“When we play our home games in Ballarat, we really feel connected out there and can feel the energy,” she said.

“We’re feeling excited and confident, making it more our home the more we play there.”

Having played Hawthorn in a recent practice match, Lynch said she expects a competitive game.

“We did beat them, and the group will take confidence from that,” she said. “Sometimes we don’t know what to expect, but it’s familiar territory for us.

“It will be a good one to watch. It’s going to be a competitive season across the board.”

After a loss at the cattery in round one, Lynch said this week’s focus has been resilience and unity.

“We had a tough day down there, and it obviously wasn’t anywhere near what we wanted to produce,” she said.

“The consistent messaging has been to stick by each other and look after one another. We’ll review the technical stuff… and just try to keep together, especially so early in the season.”

Tickets are $10 for adults, and entry is free for fans under 18.