Bulldogs’ tactics in the spotlight, Roos stay unbeaten

A SNAPSHOT OF WEEK SEVEN OF THE AFLW SEASON

THEY SAID IT: “We’re in a really heavy education phase with this group, so defence for us is crucial in developing for our second phase, which we hope will be a little more attractive.” – Western Bulldogs coach Tamara Hyett on trying to strike a balance between winning games and playing an attractive style of footy after her team scored just seven points across their past two matches, bringing down their overall average to 21 points per game this season. The Bulldogs were criticised after Friday’s dour loss to Essendon for their negative tactics, sparking debate in the league about whether AFLW coaches have a responsibility to encourage more attractive footy.

THE MOMENT: Port Adelaide’s Matilda Scholz took one of the greatest marks in AFLW history when she launched high among a big pack during her team’s eight-point win over Collingwood. Her teammate Gemma Houghton produced a goal-of-the-year contender in the same match with a magical kick from the pocket from the tightest of angles.

STAT THAT MATTERS: The Western Bulldogs became the first AFLW side to be held goalless three times in a season when they suffered a 3.8 (26) to 0.3 (3) loss to Essendon on Friday. It also marked the Bulldogs’ lowest ever score.

TALKING POINT: Will anyone be able to beat North Melbourne this season? The ladder leaders continued on their merry way with a 60-point win over Sydney on Sunday. Their only blemish this season came in round two, when they were held to a draw by Geelong. The Kangaroos have won every other game, and now boast a percentage of 313. They will start favourites against Essendon, Adelaide and Gold Coast in their final three games, and will take some stopping in the finals.

PLAYER OF THE ROUND: Star Adelaide midfielder Ebony Marinoff fell just two disposals short of the AFLW record, tallying 41 disposals, 12 clearances, 17 tackles, three goal assists and 412m gained in her team’s 64-point win over GWS.

TRIBUNAL WATCH: Hawthorn’s big win over West Coast could come at a cost. Late in the game, a fierce tackle from Jess Vukic sent Eagles opponent Jess Hosking from the field. Moments later, there was a push-and-shove between Hawthorn defender Ainslie Kemp and West Coast’s Kellie Gibson. Kemp caught Gibson in the sternum with a jab, felling her, and the Eagle also had to leave the ground.

INJURIES: R Kearns (Geel, concussion), E O’Shea (NM, ankle), J O’Sullivan (Syd, elbow), L Goss (Carl, ankle), J Teakle (Port, jarred knee), K Srhoj (GWS, knee)

WHAT’S NEXT: With the condensed part of the fixture over, normal business resumes. Carlton and the Bulldogs kick off the round on Thursday night, with Port taking on St Kilda in a crunch clash on Friday night. The battle between Richmond and Melbourne on Saturday will have a big impact on the top four and the top eight, while West Coast will be fighting to keep their finals hopes alive in Saturday night’s western derby. Sunday’s matches feature Geelong up against Brisbane, Essendon fronting up to North Melbourne, and Collingwood hosting Adelaide.