Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 16, 2024 8:33 pm GMT
In a dramatic turn of events during a highly anticipated AFLW match, the clash between Fremantle and Hawthorn was halted after a serious incident involving a Hawks player. Mackenzie Eardley, a key member of the Hawthorn team, was stretchered off the field following a frightening knock that left her motionless on the ground.
Scary Incident Halts the Game
The alarming moment unfolded late in the first quarter as Eardley dove to intercept an incoming challenge from Fremantle. Unfortunately, she took a heavy blow to the neck and head, causing immediate concern among players and spectators. Medical staff swiftly surrounded her, and play was paused for approximately ten minutes while she was assessed.
Once stabilized, Eardley was carried off on a stretcher to a wave of applause from fans, showcasing her bravery in a high-risk situation. Hawthorn later confirmed that she had sustained a neck injury and would undergo precautionary scans at a nearby hospital.
Strong Starts by Both Teams
Prior to the delay, both teams were showing promising form. Fremantle’s Tunisha Kikoak scored, marking just the second time the team had achieved a first-quarter goal this season. Meanwhile, Hawthorn demonstrated aggressive offensive strategies with three goals by quarter-time, displaying their strong tackle pressure on the field.
Despite the pause, the atmosphere remained charged, and supporters were eager to see how both teams would recover after the interruption.
AFLW Action Continues This Weekend
The match was part of a busy week for the AFLW, with a total of 12 matches in a single week. Sunday’s lineup featured additional matches that continued to build excitement among fans.
- Gold Coast vs. Essendon: Following a rough start, Gold Coast aimed to find their first victory against a confident Essendon team coming off a recent win over Sydney.
- Sydney vs. Geelong: Both teams were looking to regain momentum after falling short in previous matches, with a narrow chance of reaching finals on the line.
Upcoming Matches and Key Players
As the AFLW season progresses, the performances of key players will be critical. Sydney made a notable change by dropping forward Montana Beruldsen, replacing her with Paris McCarthy. Geelong also dealt with injuries, missing out on players Gabbi Featherston and Bryde O’Rourke.
The matchup between Fremantle and Hawthorn will remain a highlight, especially since the Dockers entered the game on a winning streak. The importance of resilience and strategy was underscored by the absence of Hawthorn’s breakout midfielder Mattea Breed, whose injury was a significant setback for the team.
Conclusion: A Season of Thrills and Resilience
The drama of the AFLW continues to unfold, showcasing not just the talent of the players but also the physical challenges of the sport. The incident involving Mackenzie Eardley serves as a reminder of the risks athletes face on the field. As teams like Fremantle and Hawthorn continue to battle, fans are left excited about the future of the season and the impressive narratives of resilience and determination that emerge from each game.
Fans are excited about the AfLW season and should keep an eye on all the games to stay updated and see what happens!
