Melbourne vs Adelaide AFLW Finals LIVE: Tahlia Gillard Shines, Gawn Praises Demons
Melbourne Demons Advance to AFLW Preliminary Final After Thrilling Semifinal Victory Over Adelaide Crows
Melbourne,Australia – The Melbourne Demons secured their place in the AFLW Preliminary Final with a hard-fought 8.6 (54) to 6.6 (42) victory over the Adelaide Crows at Norwood Oval on sunday. A dominant final quarter saw the Demons overcome a determined crows outfit, fueled by a standout performance from midfielder Tahlia Gillard and a strong finish led by Shelley Hore. The win sets up a highly anticipated preliminary final clash against North Melbourne.
The match was a tense affair, with both teams trading blows throughout the first three quarters. Adelaide started strongly, utilizing their trademark pressure to keep the Demons at bay. However, Melbourne’s midfield, spearheaded by Gillard, gradually gained control, providing their forwards with more opportunities. The Crows fought back valiantly, but Melbourne’s relentless pressure and accurate kicking in the final quarter proved decisive.
Shelley Hore was instrumental in the Demons’ comeback, kicking two crucial goals in the final term. Gillard’s performance drew high praise, with Max Gawn, Melbourne’s AFL captain, commenting on her exceptional play. The Demons’ ability to respond when challenged highlighted their resilience and championship credentials.
Key Stats & Game Flow
The game was characterized by intense midfield battles and strong defensive efforts from both sides. Here’s a breakdown of key statistics:
| Statistic | melbourne Demons | Adelaide Crows |
|---|---|---|
| Total Points | 54 | 42 |
| Goals | 8 | 6 |
| Behinds | 6 | 6 |
| Inside 50s | 33 | 27 |
| Disposals | 278 | 258 |
| Tackles | 78 | 84 |
The first half saw a tight contest,with Adelaide leading at quarter time. Melbourne responded in the second quarter,but the Crows maintained a slender lead at halftime. The third quarter was a back-and-forth affair, setting the stage for a thrilling final quarter. Melbourne’s surge in the final term ultimately proved too strong for Adelaide.
This Melbourne side is demonstrating the hallmarks of a genuine premiership contender. Their ability to withstand pressure, adjust their game plan, and find key contributors when needed is extraordinary. Tahlia Gillard is rapidly establishing herself as one of the league’s premier midfielders, and Shelley Hore’s clutch performance in the final quarter underscores the team’s depth. adelaide, while valiant, ultimately lacked the finishing power to match Melbourne’s intensity. The Demons’ upcoming clash with North Melbourne promises to be a engaging contest, pitting two of the competition’s strongest teams against each other. – davidthompson
Looking Ahead
Melbourne will now turn their attention to the Preliminary Final against North Melbourne.The date and venue are yet to be confirmed, but the Demons will be confident of continuing their strong form and securing a spot in the AFLW Grand Final. For Adelaide, the loss marks the end of a promising season, leaving them to regroup and rebuild for the next campaign.