The West Coast Eagles have made three changes to the team ahead of Saturday morning’s battle with the Bombers at Mineral Resources Park.
Claremont Tigers product Jayme Harken will make her AFLW debut in the blue and gold, the back-to-back Dhara Kerr Medallist an exciting inclusion into the side.
Not only was Harken named MVP of the WAFLW league for the second consecutive season, she also won the flag and was awarded the Lou Knitter medal for best on ground in the Tigers’ grand final victory over East Fremantle.
One of the most consistent mids in the WAFLW and an all-round threat, Harken has an elite endurance base, strong and clean hands, with the ability to break tackles and fend off her opposition to get the ball clear.
Week Two will also see the return of skipper Emma Swanson after missing the season-opener last week with groin soreness.
The experienced midfielder trained this week and got the all-clear from medical staff to suit up against the Dons.
Talented ruck Sarah Lakay has been named in the side after struggling with a back injury in 2023 that saw her season end early.
Lakay is an imposing force around the contest and will likely be tasked with Essendon’s dominant tall Stephanie Wales.
Swanson, Harken and Lakay come in for Evie Gooch, Tess Lyons and Verity Simmons who have been omitted.
Bouncedown for Saturday’s week two matchup with Essendon is 11:05am at Mineral Resources Park. Tickets available here.
