JUST the one AFL Women’s game take place on Grand Final Day with Collingwood facing rivals Essendon at Punt Road. The clash lines up with the Magpies’ men’s side taking on Brisbane in the AFL Grand Final later in the day. We preview the big clash between the well-known Anzac Day clubs.

11:05am
Punt Road Oval

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Collingwood has had a less than ideal start to the season, with only one win to its name so far this season. Essendon on the other hand is enjoying a strong start to the season, with only one loss in 2023.

History

Today’s meeting is the second in history between the pair, with Collingwood winning the first encounter last season by just under two goals.

Key Stat Areas

There are a few key stat areas that particularly Collingwood need to keep an eye on today in order to get the win. Perhaps a sign of how their seasons have transpired so far, Essendon is doing significantly better than Collingwood in a lot of categories.

One big focus for Collingwood needs to be Essendon’s uncontested possession game. That is one of the most glaring disparities between the sides.

However, there is areas for Essendon to focus on too. Although the Bombers have been getting more inside 50s than Collingwood, it the Pies who have been more efficient once inside 50.

Key Match Up/s

Brittany Bonnici vs Madison Prespakis

These two are the absolute keys to victory in the midfield battle for their respective sides, so whoever wins this duel is going to set their team up well for success. However, they need the help around them to truly capitalise on any hard work.

Ash Brazill vs Ellyse Gamble

Collingwood’s forward line needs a shake up and for someone to step up and be the focal target, and Brazill could just be that player. However, she will not have an easy time doing so today with Gamble as her likely opponent. Brazill is going to have to be clever in her play.

Lauren Brazzale vs Bonnie Toogood

Up the other end, and Toogood is definitely the focal point of Essendon’s attack, and keeping her quiet is absolutely crucial for Collingwood to get the win today. Although Brazzale is the most likely opponent, anyone who ends up on Toogood is not going to have a quiet afternoon.