AFLW: Roos Top Crows in Qualifying Final Thriller
The North Melbourne Kangaroos have booked their spot in the AFLW preliminary final with a thrilling 3-point victory over the Adelaide Crows in a nail-biting Qualifying Final clash. The Roos emerged victorious in a see-sawing encounter, ultimately triumphing 6.8 (44) to 6.5 (41) at Adelaide Oval on Saturday.
A Tense and Tight Contest
The game was a tense affair from the outset, with both teams fighting tooth and nail for every possession. The first quarter saw the Crows take an early lead, but the Roos fought back to level the scores at quarter-time. The second quarter was a tight battle, with both teams exchanging blows.
Turning Point in the Third
The third quarter proved to be a turning point in the match. The Roos were able to build a small lead, but the Crows fought back to level the scores once again. However, North Melbourne was able to hold on to a slender advantage heading into the final term.
Roos Hold their Nerve
The final quarter was a nerve-wracking affair, with both teams desperate to take the win. The Crows were able to close the gap several times, but the Roos were able to hold their nerve and secure a vital victory.
Key Performers for North Melbourne
Several players stood out for the Roos. Jenna Bruton was a dominant force in the midfield, while Emma Kearney and Ashleigh Riddell were instrumental in the Roos’ attack. Ellie Gavalas was also crucial in the forward line, converting two crucial goals in the final quarter.
Adelaide's Disappointment
The Crows will be disappointed with their loss, but they can take heart from their strong performance. They had the chance to win the game late, but a couple of missed opportunities cost them dearly. Ebony Marinoff was a standout for Adelaide, but ultimately it wasn’t enough to get them over the line.
Looking Ahead to the Preliminary Final
North Melbourne now faces a daunting task in the preliminary final. They will be hoping to build on their momentum from this victory and continue their push towards the AFLW Grand Final.
This Qualifying Final was a testament to the high quality of the AFLW. Both the Roos and the Crows put on a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the athleticism and skill of the competition. With the finals series heating up, it promises to be an exciting finish to the season.