Hawthorn has narrowly defeated Collingwood by nine points in a tense match at Victoria Park, ensuring their hopes for a top-four finish in the AFLW remain intact. The Hawks, who were goalless until the final quarter, faced a fierce comeback from the Magpies, who managed to score three quick goals, closing the gap to just three points. Ultimately, a decisive goal from Jess Vukic secured the victory for the visitors, finishing the match at 5.9 (39) to 3.12 (30) on March 16, 2024.
Collingwood entered the match with renewed confidence after defeating Sydney the previous week, but their record now stands at 2-4 after six matches. The Hawks rebounded from a disappointing 21-point loss to Adelaide, claiming their fifth win of the season. The game took a serious turn when Kalinda Howarth, a prominent forward for Collingwood, suffered a significant knee injury during the first quarter. She was visibly in pain after a tackle from Hawthorn’s Laura Stone. This match marked Howarth’s sixth appearance since returning from an ACL injury sustained while at the Gold Coast Suns in 2023. Following her injury, Collingwood coach Sam Wright confirmed that Howarth was substituted out at quarter-time, with the club awaiting further medical assessments.
Hawthorn also faces concerns over the fitness of forward Bridie Hipwell, who was stretchered off the field in the third quarter due to a lower leg injury.
Match Highlights and Key Performers
The Hawks’ attack was led by Aine McDonagh, who contributed two goals to the team’s tally. Midfielder Eliza West and defender Tilly Lucas-Rodd were instrumental in maintaining possession throughout the match. For Collingwood, Ash Centra made a notable impact, scoring a goal and amassing 23 disposals, while captain Ruby Schleicher recorded her side’s opening goal.
The first quarter saw some controversy as McDonagh was initially ruled to have scored a behind, only for the decision to be overturned, crediting her with a goal. This early scoring helped establish a 14-point lead for the Hawks, while Collingwood struggled to get on the board, managing only two points by quarter-time.
Following the break, Collingwood surged into action, achieving five forward entries against none from Hawthorn but failed to convert these opportunities into goals. McDonagh eventually broke the deadlock in the second term, scoring the only major after eluding defender Lauren Butler.
After a goalless third quarter for both teams, Hawthorn’s Keely Coyne finally added to the scoreboard before Schleicher responded, igniting a late challenge for Collingwood. Despite their efforts, the Magpies could not reclaim the lead, leaving Hawthorn to celebrate a hard-fought victory.
This match not only highlights the competitive spirit of both teams but also underscores the ongoing challenges they face as they navigate injuries and strive for success in the AFLW season.
