REIGNING premiers Claremont and big improvers Swan Districts are the two in-form sides of the competition, with neither team having lost in the past seven matches. Claremont has remained undefeated thus far this season, with a draw to East Fremantle the only points lost in season 2023. Swan Districts on the other hand had a horror start to the year, slipping to 0-4, before going on a 7-0 run to slot into third on the table.

FORM

The two teams are the most in-form sides in the competition setting up a brilliant clash of WAFL Women’s action. Swan Districts’ seven-game winning streak is the most in the competition, but the Black Ducks are yet to play either of the top two teams in that time. They get that chance now, with Claremont having won all bar one game this season, and only dropping two points in 2023.

CHANGES

At the selection table, Swan Districts has been the better of the two in terms of regaining some vital talent, with leading goalkicker Courtney Zappara and intercepting defender Isabella Edgley back in the team. Megan Carron also returns for the black and whites with Kaitlyn Beaton, Teyharna Curry and Brooke Edwards the ones to come out of the side.

For Claremont, the Tigers lose young gun Ella Slocombe and Tess Blackburn, while adding a stack of players to an extended interchange. Among those coming into the side are Bridie Garlick, Hayley Colvin and Tazma Hutson.

KEY PLAYERS

Both sides have quality players across the board with the Claremont midfield tough to beat. Jayme Harken, Matilda Sergeant and Sarah Viney will make life tough for the Swans, while Mackenzie Webb has been rock solid in defence. Up the other end of the field, Jacinta Valentini and Adele Arnup have made it count in front of goal.

Zappara will look to continue her ripping form prior to missing the last match for Swan Districts, with Edgley adding that extra force in defence. In midfield, Ruby Mahony, Tyla Fitzgerald and Hope Ugle-Hayward have stepped up in the absence of Jaime Henry, while Kaylee King has been in great form on the wing.

PREDICTION

Claremont is such a difficult side to beat and the Tigers deserve to be favourites, but the form of Swan Districts must be respected, and the Black Ducks are a legitimate chance in this match. It should be a thriller, especially with key players returning for the visitors.