Emerging defender Sophie McDonald has been rewarded for her shutdown performance on Giants forward Cora Staunton with selection in the AFLW Team of the Week, alongside West Coast skipper Emma Swanson.

One key factor towards McDonald’s (six tackles) success was her ability to wrap up Staunton (eight disposals) when taking possessions, especially within the Giants attacking 50.

Head coach Michael Prior also commended her consistency post-match, praising the defender for the homework she has put in against her opposing forwards for the last four weeks.

Swanson was the standout contributor for West Coast with 23 disposals, nine clearances, nine tackles and a goal.

The captain also had the highest number of contested possessions (16) and centre clearances (three) which were key focus points given by Prior pre-game.

The two inclusions now make up three total Team of the Week selections this season, joining Aisling McCarthy who was selected in round one.