In a nail-biting conclusion to the home and away season, the Adelaide Crows have punched their ticket to the AFLW finals, simultaneously crushing Fremantle's miraculous late-season resurgence in a heart-stopping encounter that went down to the wire.
The Final Quarter That Decided Everything
With finals hopes hanging in the balance for both clubs, the match transformed into a pressure-cooker affair that had fans on the edge of their seats. The Crows, drawing on their championship experience, managed to withstand a ferocious final-quarter assault from the determined Dockers.
Fremantle, who had mounted an incredible late-season charge to put themselves in finals contention, threw everything at their opponents in the dying minutes. The Dockers' never-say-die attitude was on full display as they desperately sought the goals that would keep their fairytale alive.
Season of Contrasts for Both Clubs
Adelaide's victory caps off a consistent campaign that sees them return to finals football, bolstered by their trademark defensive strength and clinical ball movement when it mattered most.
Meanwhile, Fremantle's journey proved one of the stories of the season. After appearing down and out midway through the campaign, the Dockers mounted an extraordinary turnaround that saw them win five of their last six matches to put themselves in finals contention.
What This Means for the Finals Picture
The Crows now advance to the AFLW finals series, bringing their powerful brand of football to the postseason where they'll be considered genuine contenders for the premiership.
For Fremantle, the narrow defeat marks a heartbreaking end to what had become an inspirational late-season revival. While falling short of finals football, their remarkable resurgence provides strong foundations to build upon for the 2026 season.
The match served as a fitting finale to the home and away season, showcasing the intensity and drama that has become synonymous with AFLW football at its very best.
