Demons Bounce Back with Victory Over GWS, Revitalizing AFLW Season
Melbourne Demons coach Mick Stinear credited a return to basics and a focus on enjoyment for revitalizing his team’s AFLW season with a much-needed win over GWS. The Demons ended a four-game losing streak with a solid 6.5 (41) to 3.7 (25) victory at Princes Park, with skipper Kate Hore delivering an outstanding performance and Alyssa Bannan contributing two crucial goals.
This win marks Melbourne’s first since round one, moving them to 13th on the ladder with a record of 2-4 and eight points. They are now just four points behind eighth-placed St Kilda, who have a game in hand. Stinear expressed pride in his team’s performance, stating, “It was just good to see them enjoy that winning feeling.”
Reflecting on the team’s struggles, Stinear noted, “At the end of last week, we asked ourselves how to help this group get the best out of themselves and enjoy their footy a bit more. Today was about simplifying our approach, letting go of any expectations, and just playing the game.”
Injury relief is on the horizon for the Demons, with Paxy Paxman (foot) and Eliza McNamara (nose) potentially returning soon.
For GWS, the loss was a setback for their finals hopes, leaving them in 15th place with a record of 1-1-4 and six points. Coach Cam Bernasconi lamented the team’s inability to execute key moments, saying, “Tonight’s just the story of our first half of the season. We’ve improved in many areas but have struggled to close out games.”
Despite GWS’s efforts, including two third-quarter goals from Brodee Mowbray that reduced the margin to 10 points late in the game, they were unable to complete the comeback.
Melbourne will look to build on their momentum as they face Adelaide away next Wednesday, while GWS prepares to take on St Kilda at Frankston on Tuesday.
