Richmond will look to claim its first AFLW win when it comes up against North Melbourne on Sunday afternoon at Ikon Park.
After falling 11-points short against Gold Coast in Round 2, the Tigers will be even more hungry for their maiden victory.
Richmond put up a spirited fourth quarter effort against the Suns, which they’ll be looking to emulate across the entire four quarters.
The highly-rated Kangaroos will be aiming to get their season on track after recording their first win of the season last week against GWS.
The Tigers have made one change for the clash, bringing in debutant Ella Wood in place of Tayla Stahl (hamstring injury), while the Kangaroos will head into the match unchanged.
WHERE AND WHEN:
Ikon Park
Sunday, February 23
3.10pm AEDT
GAME DAY HUB:
For all match day information, click here
KEY POINTS:
- Kangaroos Coach Scott Gowan will look to implement his team's signature pressure across the entire ground, as he leans on his side's formidable depth. North Melbourne’s midfield brigade, led by Emma Kearney, Jas Garner and Jenna Bruton, will look to control the contest. Equally, the likes of Tahlia Randall in defence and Emma King in attack will be important to the whole team effort.
- Garner will be one to watch out for, after racking up 10 coaches votes in Round 2 following a performance that included 20 touches, six tackles and two goals. Bruton (20 disposals, seven tackles) and Kearney (21 disposals, six marks) will also be looking to build on impressive Round 2 efforts.
- With dry conditions predicted and both teams coming off an eight-day break, expect an explosive and fast-paced start to the match. North Melbourne will aim to continue their efficiency in front of goals, only kicking a single behind last week. For the Tigers, accuracy in front of goals will be critical.
KEY MATCH-UP:
Phoebe Monahan v Kate Gillespie-Jones
Monahan was a key pillar in Richmond’s backline in the opening two rounds of her third AFLW season. The Tigers’ deputy vice-captain, 26, showed class and composure as she led the Tigers for disposals on both occasions.
Versatile tall Gillespie-Jones, who has been named in the Kangaroos' forward line, also boasts plenty of experience, having played in all four seasons of AFLW. The 28-year-old kicked the sealer in the Kangaroos’ Round 2 victory and collected 13 disposals.
Gillespie-Jones is no stranger to Ikon Park, having played two seasons with Carlton’s AFLW side before crossing over to North Melbourne in 2019.
