AFLW Match Report: Eagles' Finals Campaign Ended by Carlton
The West Coast Eagles’ 2025 AFLW season concluded with a challenging 41-point defeat against Carlton at IKON Park on Saturday. Facing wet and wild conditions in Melbourne, the Blues dominated on their home ground, winning 9.6 (60) to 2.7 (19), while the Eagles struggled to match their intensity.
Standout Performances
Despite the loss, several young Eagles impressed in their club’s first-ever finals appearance. Ella Roberts shone with a game-high 30 disposals, 12 tackles, and kicked the team’s first finals goal. First-year players Charlotte Riggs and Kayla Dalgleish contributed strongly in the testing weather, while defenders Charlie Thomas and Jess Rentsch were crucial in defense.
Farewell to a Pioneer
The match also marked the end of an era, as inaugural AFLW Eagle Dana Hooker closed her decade-long career following her retirement announcement earlier in the season.
The Game’s Turning Points
Carlton began strongly, keeping West Coast scoreless in the first quarter. Roberts’ goal in the second brought some momentum, but the Blues surged in the third term with three goals. Sophie McKay impressed, kicking two goals among her eight disposals in that quarter. Carlton’s Irish pair, Erone Fitzpatrick and Dayna Finn, adapted seamlessly to the wet conditions, driving the ball forward throughout the match.
"Ella Roberts battled hard all day, finishing with a game-high 30 touches, 12 tackles, and the team’s first finals goal."
Author’s summary: West Coast’s promising first finals run ended with grit, spirit, and a fond farewell, as Carlton advanced in dominant fashion under tough Melbourne skies.