A stellar performance from Olivia Purcell guided the Melbourne Demons to a commanding 48-point victory over the Western Bulldogs in the AFLW, securing the Hampson-Hardeman Cup once again. The match, held on March 23, 2024, concluded with a score of 9.8 (62) to 1.8 (14), marking Melbourne’s fourth consecutive win against the Bulldogs.
Despite the resounding victory, the Demons faced a setback with the injury of key player Tayla Harris, who sustained an eye injury during the game. Harris, returning from a shoulder injury that limited her to just one game last season, displayed flashes of her All-Australian form before exiting in the second quarter. Following a spectacular mark just moments prior, she was struck in the face during a contest with Bulldogs player Alice Edmond.
Purcell’s impressive stats included one goal, 33 disposals, and seven clearances, solidifying her performance as a masterclass. Another standout for Melbourne was Tyla Hanks, who contributed significantly with 29 disposals and two goals, joining teammates Kate Hore and Eden Zanker on the scoreboard.
The Bulldogs saw the return of former captain Ellie Blackburn, who managed to gather 17 disposals after limited play last season due to a foot injury. Jasmyn Smith emerged as the Bulldogs’ leading ball winner with 21 disposals, but the team’s offensive efforts fell short throughout the match.
The game’s opening goal came from an unexpected source as defender Shelley Heath broke through almost 13 minutes into the first quarter. This marked Heath’s fifth goal in her eighth AFLW season. Kate Hore followed up with another goal, establishing a 12-point lead for Melbourne at halftime after intercepting a kick intended for Grant.
In the second quarter, the Bulldogs managed to score their only goal of the match, courtesy of Heidi Woodley, who capitalized on a contested situation. Bulldogs midfielder Jess Fitzgerald had a chance to narrow the deficit just before halftime but hit the post with her set shot.
Melbourne’s dominance continued into the second half, scoring 4.3 while holding the Bulldogs scoreless in the third quarter. The Demons built a significant lead of 39 points by the end of the third period, showcasing their ability to control the game effectively.
As the final whistle blew, the Melbourne Demons celebrated not just a victory, but a testament to their resilience and skill on the field, while the Western Bulldogs look to regroup and address the challenges they faced in this match.
