Essendon VFLW has made two changes to its side ahead of Saturday’s round 13 clash against the Southern Saints at Windy Hill.        

Calder Cannons recruit Alana Barba is one of the notable inclusions, lining up for her first game in the red and black.         

Barba starred for the Cannons, averaging 12 disposals and seven tackles in her 11 game appearances.   

The 17-year-old was also selected in the 2019 Under-18 Vic Metro squad and was recently invited to October’s NAB AFLW Draft Combine.

After making her Dons debut last week, young star Georgia Patrikios has been ruled out due to commitments with the AFLW academy.   

Versatile forward Monique DeMatteo returns to the line-up and is set to play her first senior game since round four.      

Alex Quigley and Simone Nalder will look to continue their good form, with the duo putting in impressive performances in last week’s game, earning a spot in the round 12 VFLW Team of the Week.     

Despite playing some minutes in defence last week, Lori Stepnell will line up in the forward pocket alongside Jessica Stassi.    

AFLW-listed players Cecilia McIntosh (Collingwood), Maighan Fogas (Geelong) and Maddy Collier (West Coast) make up the remainder of the forward line.    

At the opposite end, Chloe Laan will act as a key defender, with support from Kirby Hicks and Sian Wilson.  

Following last weekend’s 39-point win against Williamstown, the VFLW Dons will be searching for their third straight win.    

The final team will be decided before the first bounce at 11:30am on Saturday, August 3.

Live match updates will be available via Essendon VFLW’s Twitter.

Victoria Raptis is in the final year of her Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) degree at RMIT University. As part of their strategic partnership, Essendon Football Club and RMIT University are committed to providing opportunities for students, staff, players and the wider community.