The West Coast Eagles have secured their first AFLW finals appearance, but the historic achievement was overshadowed by a loss to Carlton on Friday night. The Eagles advanced to the post-season after the Sydney Swans suffered a shock three-point defeat to Essendon at Coffs Harbour on Saturday. The Swans needed to beat the injury-hit Bombers, who had lost eight consecutive matches, to claim a finals berth. Instead, Essendon held on for a 2.2 (14) to 1.5 (11) victory, leaving the Swans devastated.
West Coast coach Daisy Pearce acknowledged the milestone but emphasized the team's focus on improvement. "We're proud to be in the finals, but this loss shows we have work to do," Pearce said. The Eagles will use the experience as motivation for the 2026 season, aiming to build a consistent finals contender.
In other AFLW action, Melbourne secured second spot on the ladder with a 9.5 (59) to 6.9 (45) win over Geelong, ruining the farewell for retiring Cats veterans Kate Darby, Meghan McDonald, and Shelley Scott. The Demons' Eden Zanker kicked four goals, while Tyla Hanks amassed 27 disposals. Melbourne will host a home final in week one.
Port Adelaide defeated Greater Western Sydney 11.15 (81) to 3.6 (24), and the Gold Coast Suns beat Richmond 5.9 (39) to 3.7 (25). Fremantle's finals hopes remain alive ahead of Sunday's match against Adelaide.
