Where and when: Henson Park, Saturday, November 2, 3:05pm (12:05pm WST)

TV: Live on 7mate and Fox Footy, and streaming live on Kayo

Last time we met: Waalitj Marawar 2.9 (21) def by Sydney 5.4 (34) at Henson Park, round four, 2023.

Waalitj Marawar got off to a good start at Henson Park, before the Swans took control to secure the 13-point win. Waalitj showed excellent pressure around the ground in the first term, dominating the time inside 50, but were unable to convert on the scoreboard. Syndey made the most of their opportunities, asserting their dominance in the second term, before goals from Emma Swanson and Aisling McCarthy brought the game back to within a kick in the third quarter. Waalitj kept pushing in the fourth but were unable to bridge the gap. Swanson (22 disposals) and veteran Dana Hooker (16, nine tackles) fought hard, while Belinda Smith (19 disposals) and McCarthy (18) had plenty of the ball.

What it means for Waalitj Marawar: While finals are now off the table for Waalitj, the team will still be playing to win, and will relish the opportunity for another chance to grow and develop in their final game of the season. There will be plenty of learnings for the team to be able to take out of this clash with Sydney, and after Waalitj’s most successful season to date, they will be looking to finish strongly. The players will once again proudly don the stunning Indigenous Round guernsey designed by Yamatji artist Lorretta Egan, as the club continues to be committed to reconciliation and empowering First Nations peoples across the AFLW and in the community.

The stat: Waalitj Marawar have only faced the Swans once since joining the league in 2020.  

Oppo in focus: Laura Gardiner

Swans 2023 club champion Laura Gardiner plays a dangerous role through Sydney’s midfield, and will be one player that Waalitj will be looking to nullify in Saturday’s matchup. The 21-year-old has continued her upward trajectory since joining the Swans last year, and currently sits second in the League for disposals, averaging an impressive 29.1 touches per game.

It’s a big week for: Evie Gooch

Evie Gooch announced her retirement earlier in the week and has been recalled to the side to play her final game of AFLW footy on Saturday. The elite defender has been in the competition for eight seasons, and has had an incredible impact for Waalitj Marawar, both on and off the field, and has played a huge part in the development of emerging defenders such as Sophie McDonald and Charlie Thomas.

Big call: Bella Lewis will kick multiple goals (two) for the first time in her 50-game career.

Milestone: Bella Lewis 50 club games