FILLING out some key position needs at the 2024 AFLW Draft while picking a couple of Oakleigh Chargers premiership players proved to be the strategy for the Western Bulldogs. The Dogs managed to grab a much needed forward target to partner up with Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner, as well as an experienced ruck, and gut-running midfielder.

>> EVERY PICK: National Draft | Recap

DRAFT HAUL

National Draft:

8. Emma McDonald
25. Sarah Poustie
49. Keeley Hardingham

Heading into AFLW Draft night with pick 8, the Western Bulldogs selected the best pure key forward in the crop. Emma McDonald is an elite contested mark, ultra-athletic and strong at ground level, enabling her to follow-up from marking contests and remain involved. The two-time Oakleigh Chargers premiership player can suit up both high and deep inside 50, and will be a readymade target for the Dogs in a young, but potent forwardline.

The Dogs then paired up McDonald with a player who is all too familiar in putting it on her head, with Sarah Poustie joining her Chargers and Vic Metro teammate at Whitten Oval. Breaking all the endurance records between the preseason and National Draft Combine, Poustie is one of the best gut-runners and will be able to play both on the inside and outside, playing any role required of her at AFLW level.

Rounding out the trio of players is a familiar face in Keeley Hardingham who crossed to the Bulldogs from the Cats’ VFLW program over the off-season. That paid dividends, with Hardingham averaging 17.5 disposals, 2.7 marks, 22.6 hitouts and 5.4 tackles, while kicking nine goals in 18 games. She fills a vital ruck void at the Dogs and can go forward for a stronger body in attack. The former Geelong Falcon is a readymade prospect.

In terms of 2025, all three could play Round 1 depending on team selection and preference. The trio all have the credentials and ability to play now, with McDonald as readymade as any other athletic key forward, and Poustie likely to dominate any endurance test even at the elite level. Both should find themselves with early debuts, while Hardingham will be in the mix as well given the Dogs are looking for that backup ruck option.