One for the defenders’ union.
In the midst of their longest winning streak in AFLW history to date, a key facet of Essendon’s strong mid-season form has been the cohesion of its back six, with many established and emerging talents enjoying career-best form this year.
Whether it’s been via their recent recruiting drive or the growth of day one Dons, their overall team defence has shown marked improvement, currently ranked fourth in the AFLW for least points conceded.
For reference, after week four they were ranked 12th in the same category following their 1-3 start to the campaign.
Amidst the group’s collective output, it’s been easy to identify leader Maddi Gay as one of the standouts.
The 28-year-old has added a new layer to the Bombers’ setup behind the footy and has relished her fresh start at a new club with career-high averages in several key areas – 17 disposals, four marks and a whopping 426 metres gained per game.
As noted in Gemma Bastiani’s afl.com.au article last week, Gay’s versatility has opened the door for other lockdown-oriented Bombers to hit their stride.
Georgia Clarke’s last month has been nothing short of stellar, averaging 18 disposals and nearly seven marks per game over her last four outings. The 24-year-old’s career-best effort of 25 touches and 10 marks negated the Bulldogs frequently last Friday.
With more frequent senior opportunities coming in 2024, Ash Van Loon is another who continues to impress, looking to have grown in one-on-one strength and confidence against more experienced opponents.
The 20-year-old is also fresh off arguably her best game at the level, recording 14 touches and six marks alongside reliable performer Alex Morcom (15 disposals, four marks) as the Dons kept the Dogs goalless.
Despite spending all of pre-season training as a forward, first-year Don and Rising Star nominee Amy Gaylor is another who’s slotted into her role seamlessly, adapting to the pace of the highest level more with each week she plays.
The return of Brooke Brown gives the Bombers even more assurance down back, with the 33-gamer making her first appearance of the campaign last week after a lengthy injury layoff.
Essendon’s defensive group have a strong challenge ahead in the form of Brown’s former side North Melbourne this Sunday at Windy Hill, looking to build from their four wins-in-a-row.
