TODAY, the all important AFL Women’s Season 8 Preliminary Finals begin. But will today see the crowning of a fifth time Grand Finalist or a first time one?

Today at 7:45pm
Ikon Park

How They Got Here

Brisbane come into this clash after a weekend off earned thanks to a qualifying final win over Adelaide, while Geelong has had to go the long way around and find themselves in today’s game off the back of an impressive win against Melbourne last week.

History

There is a bit of history between these two sides. They have met three times previously, with Brisbane winning two of those three previous meetings.

Key Stat Areas

Both of these sides are poor when it comes to hitouts and stoppage clearances, but quite strong when it comes to centre clearances.

Geelong’s inside 50 count is better than Brisbane’s, but the Lions have been far more efficient inside 50 than the Cats have this season.

Key Match Up/s

Isabel Dawes vs Georgie Prespakis

As Melbourne learnt the hard way last week you cannot afford to leave Prespakis free even an inch if you want to succeed, so Brisbane cannot afford to make the same mistake today. Thankfully the Lions have Dawes, who rmatches up well with Prespakis and can play that run-with tagging role if need be.

Dakota Davidson vs Meghan McDonald

It is no secret how dangerous Davidson is up forward for Brisbane, so Geelong will need to mark her closely all day. Luckily they have McDonald, who has the experience and know how to match it with the star forward.

Phoebe Monahan vs Chloe Scheer

Up the other end Geelong will be grateful to have the crafty Scheer returning today, with her sneakiness and ability to work at the foot of their talls absolutely crucial. Monahan is going to have a busy day, and cannot afford to give Scheer any space.