AFLW Cats primed to go further in finals

A YEAR on from Geelong’s heartbreaking week 1 finals exit, the Cats have a chance to reverse the result when they face off against Essendon this Sunday, November 12.

The Elimination Final clash marks back-to-back finals appearances for Dan Lowther’s side.

Cats midfielder Georgie Prespakis said the side had found a run of form over the past fortnight, winning its past two matchups by a combined 78 points against Richmond and Hawthorn.

“We’ve really hit our straps the last couple of weeks, it’s the result of playing together with a lot of care and a lot of joy, going out there and playing freely.

“Over our past two games, we’ve been able to play eight consistent quarters, and to be able to win games, you’ll need to play all four quarters against tough opposition, and we’ll look to build on that heading into finals.”

Cats vice-captain Nina Morrison said last year’s finals loss certainly sat back of mind, but it would be extra motivation.

“We’ve improved so much this year and have added layers to our game.

“We probably had a harder fixture this year than we did last year, but to be able to continue to perform, it feels like a step in the right direction if we can go further than we did in 2022.

“That home crowd definitely adds another layer [of confidence] for us. Just the energy it brings, it provides another bit of momentum for us. Hopefully, it comes out in full force for us this weekend.”

The Cats’ forward line pressure has been a standout statistic for the 2023 season, ranking sixth in the competition for scoring led by Geelong’s three key forwards Chloe Scheer, Jacqueline Parry, and Irish recruit Aishling Moloney.

A former Gaelic football star, Moloney scored six goals in her rookie season and has provided a pivotal hit-up target inside the forward 50.

“This season has been incredible, I’m looking forward to the Elimination Final this weekend, coming over I would never have thought this would happen. It’s exciting and new for me,” she said.

“The Bombers are an incredible team the way they played against us that day in Warrnambool, they really put us to the test, so we expect this week to be a tough challenge for us also.

“For me though, before we even went into discussions, I’ve heard this week will be a big contest and everyone wants to win.

“At the end of the day, we will bring our contest, they will bring theirs, and hopefully we come out on top at the end of the day.”

Moloney’s parents, who are visiting Australia on holiday from Ireland, will be miked up as part of the game’s broadcast.

Ticket prices for the first three week of finals will remain the same as the 2023 home and away season – $10 for adults and concessions – while juniors (Under 18) can attend for free.

To purchase tickets to the game starting 1.05pm, head to ticketmaster.com.au/aflw