Hawks Face New Injury Concerns Ahead of AFLW Semi
Hawthorn, already burdened with multiple injuries, is reassessing its lineup following a heavy 39-point defeat to North Melbourne in the AFLW qualifying final. The loss further complicates preparations for their upcoming sudden-death semifinal.
Fresh Injury Setbacks
Star forwards Kaitlyn Ashmore and Aine McDonagh headline the Hawks' latest concerns, both sustaining injuries during the match at Princes Park on Friday night. Their absence threatens to weaken Hawthorn’s forward structure ahead of next week’s critical game.
Match Summary
The Hawks failed to score a goal, managing only three points against the reigning premiers. The result places them in a knockout semifinal against the winner of the Carlton vs. West Coast elimination final, scheduled for Saturday afternoon at Princes Park.
Game Incidents
- Ashmore suffered a right calf injury early in the third quarter.
- Emily Everist underwent concussion testing after being tackled by Tahlia Randall.
- Defender Laura Elliott injured her chest following a heavy collision with Vikki Wall.
- McDonagh took a knock to her right knee from an Erika O'Shea challenge.
Despite these setbacks, Elliott, Everist, and McDonagh managed to return for the final quarter, while Ashmore remained out of play.
“The Hawks were held goalless and scored just three points to pit themselves into a sudden-death clash next week.”
Outlook
Hawthorn will need quick recoveries from key players to stay competitive in the semifinal, facing elimination should injuries continue to unsettle their roster.
Author’s Summary: Hawthorn’s AFLW campaign takes another blow as injuries to key players threaten their chances in the upcoming knockout semifinal.