AFTER a big start to the 2024 AFLW Finals last night, it continues today on the other side of the country between a finals returnee and one of the newest sides returning for its second tilt at finals.

4pm local time (7pm AEDT)
Fremantle Oval

Recent form

Fremantle has reached this point off the back of a return to form this season after a lean few years. Essendon meanwhile had to push hard right until the final game to even make the finals, and made it into the final spot in the finals after a big final round win.

Last time they met

These two have already met once so far this season, which was back in their very first match of the season. That particular afternoon, Fremantle was far too strong for the Bombers, winning by 43 points, as many were left wondering how the Bombers would ultimately fare this season.

Key stat areas

Although Essendon has been getting a lot more of the ball than the Dockers and has been more efficient with ball in hand, Fremantle has been recording more inside 50s and has been more efficient once inside 50.

When it comes to clearances, each side is more dominant than the other in one type of clearance. For Fremantle it is stoppage clearances, while for Essendon it is centre clearances.

Key match up/s

Losing Bonnie Toogood to injury is far from ideal for the Bombers, so Daria Bannister and Ellyse Gamble in particular will really need to lift to cover the volume gap Toogood provides.

Not helping Essendon’s case is that Fremantle’s defence is boosted this week by the return of Ash Brazill, who will slot right back in alongside the likes of Gabby O’Sullivan and Emma O’Driscoll in that defence.