STRAP yourselves in, because round seven is going to be box office. 

Geelong and Hawthorn kick off proceedings in a huge clash on Thursday night with massive finals ramifications. The Cats are one of the most in-form teams in the competition right now, while the Hawks pulled off the unthinkable last week by ending North Melbourne's incredible winning run. 

A public holiday on Friday in Victoria means there is plenty of AFLW action for fans to enjoy, headlined by a top-of-the-table clash between North Melbourne and the undefeated Melbourne. Can the Dees hand the Roos their second consecutive loss? 

Brisbane fights to keep its finals hopes alive on Sunday when they travel to Henson Park to take on a red-hot Sydney, while Carlton and the Western Bulldogs are out to continue their promising 2026 campaigns when they host Richmond and Fremantle respectively. 

Here's who and what to look out for across round seven as well as a tip for each match.

Geelong v Hawthorn, GMHBA Stadium
Thursday, September 24, 7.15pm AEST

Last time: Hawthorn 6.6 (42) d Geelong 5.5 (35), R7 2025

What it means

The Cats are making a real charge towards a top four berth and are showing no signs of slowing down. Outside of the big round one loss to North Melbourne, Mick Stinear's side has been hard to fault this year. They've got multiple weapons and contributors all over the ground which makes them a really potent side. Their scoring power has been impressive, going from averaging 41 points last year to 71 this season. The Hawks present as a good litmus test.

Hawthorn caused the upset of the year when they took down the seemingly invincible North Melbourne last week. The Hawks played the Cairns conditions beautifully and kudos has to go to coach Daniel Webster, who masterminded the phenomenal win. Can they build some momentum off the back of such a positive performance? That'll be the aim as the Hawks look to stay in touch with the top four. 

Players to watch

Aishling Moloney could be a real handful for the Hawks on Thursday night. When up and running, Moloney is one of the most dangerous forwards in the competition and the Hawthorn defence will have their hands full trying to keep her at bay. She's strong in the air, great at ground level and is really athletic for a tall forward. 

With captain Emily Bates sidelined with an ACL injury, young Hawk Jasmine Fleming stepped up in a big way against the Kangaroos with a best on ground performance. Fleming's body has meant she is yet to break out into an A-grade star at AFLW level, but that performance against the Roos was hopefully a sign of things to come. She works incredibly hard, is so powerful at the contest and her kicking going inside 50 is one of Hawthorn's biggest weapons. The sky is the limit for Fleming.

Tip: Geelong by 10 points

Essendon v West Coast, Windy Hill
Friday, September 25, 12:05pm AEST

Last time: Essendon 4.7 (31) d West Coast 4.2 (26), R2 2025

What it means

Things have been pretty bleak for the Bombers in 2026 and they're currently one of three sides yet to register a win. It's tough to find many winners at Essendon this year, outside of reborn midfielder Maddy Prespakis and young forward Emily Gough, while Amy Gaylor and Bonnie Toogood have been solid without shooting the lights out. Who could step up for Natalie Wood's side? It might be time to give some more responsibilities to some of the younger brigade or swing a magnet or two to get things going. 

The Eagles have bounced back from a poor start to the season by winning two games on the trot. Ella Roberts is producing some brilliant footy, while there are plenty of others who have stepped up across the past fortnight to get the Eagles back to their winning ways. Is it too little too late? Possibly, but if they can string another couple of wins together, momentum can be a funny thing towards the back end of the year. 

Players to watch

It's been a tough year for the Bombers, but the way that Bonnie Toogood leads this group has to be commended. She has done everything in her power to try and lift her side out of this lean patch. Whether it's flying for marks or taking her opportunities in front of goal, Toogood's left no stone unturned in her bid to help the Dons secure their maiden win of the year.

While Roberts was best on against the Saints, former Dandenong Stingray Kayla Dalgleish was also impressive at RSEA Park. Dalgleish kicked 1.2 from 14 disposals in a performance which saw her draw seven coaches' votes, the second most for the game. If the Eagles are going to surge in the second half of the year, improvement out of players like Dalgleish will be paramount. 

Tip: West Coast by 19 points

Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide, Mission Whitten Oval
Friday, September 25, 2:05pm AEST

Last time: Port Adelaide 8.6 (54) d Western Bulldogs 5.5 (35), R8 2025

What it means

The Bulldogs have been one of the big improvers in 2026 and have given themselves a real shot at playing in another finals series. The big positive out of the Dogs this year is that they've had a very thin injury list throughout the season, which means competition for places has been fierce. Add in the fact that they play with plenty of fight and grit and that's meant they've been competitive in every match they've played. 

While the Dogs have been impressive, things haven't quite fallen into place for the Power this year, who are sitting in 14th with a win-loss record of 2-4. They were super competitive against the Swans last week, but ran out of steam late when the Swans proved too classy. The loss of Indy Tahau to an ACL injury has been huge, but the Power just cannot score right now, averaging just 31.6 points per game, the second-lowest in the competition. 

Players to watch

Ellie Blackburn returned from a hamstring injury last week and could make a real difference in the second half of the season. While she's now 31 years of age, Blackburn's leadership and footy IQ will be a huge boost to this Bulldogs side. She attended just 28.6 per cent of centre bounces last week - will that number rise or will Tam Hyett continue to rely on other names in the midfield?

While Matilda Scholz and Abbey Dowrick have been strong, the Power need others to step up and chip in. Could Shineah Goody take her game to another level? The promising youngster has been out of the centre bounce rotation in recent weeks, but has shown so much potential during her career so far. Maybe she could be the firestarter for this Power side.

Tip: Western Bulldogs by 17 points

Carlton v Richmond, Ikon Park
Friday, September 25, 4pm AEST

Last time: Richmond 6.3 (39) d Carlton 0.6 (6), W4 2024

What it means

The Blues are tracking nicely right now at 4-2 with top four the goal from here on for Mathew Buck's side. It would have been easy for the Blues to fall off after reaching the preliminary final last year, but the Blues have knuckled down and continued their strong form. They've done so with several key players spending time on the sidelines too, which bodes well for selection when it gets to crunch time. A win against the Tigers is key to remain in touch with the top echelon. 

The Tigers have taken big strides under new coach Jarrad Donders this year, but it's important that they keep it up and don't peter out in the second half of the year. Currently sitting on the fringes of the top eight at 4-2, the Tigers will get the opportunity to test themselves against some of the best teams in the competition on the run home. Finals look like a stretch, but staying competitive in those games will give their young players plenty of confidence. 

Players to watch

How good is it to have Sophie McKay back? McKay has become a fan favourite and one of the most watchable players in the competition with her craft around goals and unique celebrations. Having missed a few games with an ankle injury this year, McKay will add another dimension to Carlton's attack.

No.1 pick Olivia Wolmarans has had an immediate impact at AFLW level, highlighted by a best on ground performance last week which saw her nominated for the Telstra AFLW Rising Star award. Wolmarans is strong in the air, clean when the ball hits the deck and capitalises on her chances. It's scary to think how good she will be in the next few years. 

Tip: Carlton by 29 points

Melbourne v North Melbourne, Ikon Park
Friday, September 25, 7.15pm AEST

Last time: North Melbourne 6.10 (46) d Melbourne 5.6 (36), PF 2025

What it means

Melbourne looms as the biggest challengers to North Melbourne's throne right now, as the only undefeated side remaining in the competition this year. The Dees have looked superb under new coach Tom Wilson, playing with plenty of attacking flair while ensuring that their defence remains rock solid. Their depth across all three lines means Wilson can swing the magnets in game and pull a variety of different levers. 

The Roos were dealt a shock loss by Hawthorn last week, so all eyes will be on how they respond against the Dees. The Roos have had their depth tested in recent weeks with a host of injuries to key personnel, which has exposed some potential chinks in their armour. Having said that, the Roos are one of, if not the best run club in the competition, so if anyone can find a solution, it’ll be Darren Crocker and his staff. 

Players to watch

One of the major differences for the Dees this year in terms of personnel has been the return of gun midfielder Liv Purcell from injury. Purcell has added another dimension to Melbourne's on-ball mix, working brilliantly alongside the likes of Tyla Hanks and Kate Hore. She's tough, classy and adds plenty to this midfield mix. 

Could this be the year that Jasmine Garner finally wins the AFLW Best and Fairest? She's been one of the premier players in the competition for a long period of time and has continued to star this year. The North Melbourne skipper currently leads the coaches' votes through six rounds of the season and polled in last week's clash against Hawthorn, despite the loss. She'll be hungry to lift her side back onto the winners list this week against the Dees.

Tip: North Melbourne by 22 points

Collingwood v Greater Western Sydney, Victoria Park
Sunday, September 27, 1.05pm AEST

Last time: Collingwood 4.9 (33) d Greater Western Sydney 4.1 (25), R2 2025

What it means

The Pies have found something in the past fortnight, trying to play more positively with the ball in hand. Their main problem this year has been their third quarters, with Sam Wright's troops seemingly unable to withstand opposition pressure after half time. The Pies remain one of just three sides without a win through six rounds, but they are playing some better footy and would think they're a chance of pinching a win or two over the next few weeks, perhaps starting with this clash against the Giants. 

The Giants won their first game of the season, but have since lost five consecutive matches. Positively, Cam Bernasconi's side have shown they are able to score, even if it means they're giving up some pretty big scores, too. They've been without exciting youngsters Zarlie Goldsworthy, Kaitlyn Srhoj and Scarlett Johnson this year, which means others have had to take on more responsibility. How many games can they win in the back half of the year? For all their improvement, banking a couple of wins on the run home is vital to prove that. 

Players to watch

It's been a grim year for Pies fans, but Ruby Schleicher continues to provide highlights every single week. Straight after Cat Aishling Moloney kicked what could well be the best goal of the season, Schelicher made the Sherrin sing with a wonderful effort at the other end. She's spent more time forward this year than usual, but there's no denying her impact on a weekly basis.

Three goals for Georgia Garnett against the Tigers was a timely reminder of what the star Giant can do. Garnett has been slightly down numbers-wise this year, but is averaging one goal a game - the most of her career. It feels as though she's ready to rip a game apart and be a matchwinner. 

Tip: Greater Western Sydney by two points

Adelaide v Fremantle, Unley Oval
Sunday, September 27, 12:35pm ACST

Last time: Adelaide 4.5 (29) d Fremantle 2.5 (17), R12 2025

What it means

The Crows were touted as possible sliders in 2026, but they've been really solid under Ryan Davis this year. Davis' side are currently 11th on the ladder at 3-3, but pleasingly their best footy has been impressive. In a year of such significant change both on and off the field, the Crows were bound to be inconsistent, but at least they're going into every game thinking they can win. 

The Dockers are also 3-3 and have had some mixed results in 2026. The Dockers were in front at three quarter time last week against the Bulldogs, but were unable to score in the final term and couldn't hold the Dogs at bay. It feels like a game that might really hurt their finals aspirations. If they are to keep those hopes alive, knocking off the Crows on the road is crucial. 

Players to watch

It feels as though Ebony Marinoff bizarrely, isn't getting the plaudits she deserves this year. She's as tough as they come, works as hard as anyone and can hurt opposition sides both offensively and defensively. One of the game's very best. 

Speaking of champions, Kiara Bowers is as impressive as they come. A tackling machine, Bowers may not have the highlight plays that some of the other midfielders in the competition do, but her work ethic is second to none. It'll be a thrilling battle when she goes head-to-head with Adelaide’'s midfield, led by Marinoff. 

Tip: Adelaide by 11 points

Sydney v Brisbane, Henson Park
Sunday, September 27, 3:05pm AEST

Last time: Brisbane 11.12 (78) d Sydney 1.4 (10), W9 2024

What it means

The Swans had won plenty of admirers this year given the way they're playing under new coach Colin O'Riordan. They're playing a positive brand and have really taken it up to some of the best teams in the competition. They're still in touch with the top four, which is remarkable given how they fared last year and how much their depth has been tested at various stages. Can they maintain the rage and keep it up in the second half of the year? 

On the flip side, Brisbane, perennial contenders in this competition, have been one of the big sliders in 2026. Craig Starcevich's side are sitting 12th on the ladder with a win-loss record of 2-4, but their season is slipping away at rapid speed. They've got a tough run home, which means they've got to find their best footy as soon as possible. But, the Lions have produced some of their best footy when things are getting tough…

Players to watch

Chloe Molloy in full flight is just good for footy. One of the competition's most watchable players, Molloy is a joy to watch. Alongside new recruit and former Lion Taylor Smith, Molloy has formed a formidable duo in Sydney's front half. In years gone by where the Swans have been heavily reliant on Molloy, O'Riordan now has multiple threats inside 50 and the Swans are so much better for it. 

It's time for the leaders to step up for Brisbane which means it's Bre Koenen's time to shine. Koenen has been one of the best leaders in the competition during her time at the elite level and her side really needs her right now. The Lions have gone through plenty of list turnover in recent years, but Koenen, as well as the likes of Belle Dawes and Ally Anderson, have remained constant. It feels as though a statement performance could be brewing. 

Tip: Sydney by 13 points

Gold Coast v St Kilda, People First Stadium
Sunday, September 27, 5:05pm AEST

Last time: St Kilda 11.8 (74) d Gold Coast 2.8 (20), W1 2024

What it means

The Coast has been one of the biggest stories of the season, flourishing with their young talent under the tutelage of Rhyce Shaw. They're playing exciting footy, their young guns are shining and their experienced players are leading the way. With a win-loss record of 4-2 and a kind second half of the season to come, the Suns are well and truly in the finals mix. 

In contrast, St Kilda couldn't have been more disappointing this year. Nick Dal Santo's side has failed to fire a shot and have been comprehensively beaten in a number of games. With a growing injury list, it's hard to see how they could turn things around mid-season, but stranger things have happened. While this 2026 season is clearly not going to eventuate in a finals berth, the Saints must find a way to get something out of the rest of the year. The fans need something to smile about. 

Players to watch

Get yourself some popcorn and strap yourself in for the Ava Usher show. Gold Coast's young star has come exactly as advertised. Having starred through the junior pathways before injury struck, Usher has taken to life at the top level like a duck to water. She's all class and has such a bright future. 

With no Tyanna Smith and no Liv Vesely, who will step up for the Saints this week? Could it be the time that promising youngster Jade McLay gets unleashed as a full time midfielder? McLay has played primarily as a forward so far in her short AFLW career, but was a star through the engine room as a junior. The Saints are at rock bottom, so it might be worth a shot. 

Tip: Gold Coast by 39 points

BRISBANE couldn’t pull off the comeback heroics of its AFL side the day before and now has its season hanging by a thread after losing to Sydney at Henson Park on Sunday.

The 5.7 (37) to 3.5 (23) win has maintained the Swans’ momentum as Colin O’Riordan tries to get his side back in finals for the first time since 2023.

SWANS v LIONS Full match coverage and stats

Cynthia Hamilton landed a terrific banana goal in the first two minutes of the game to get the scoreboard in motion for Sydney, but neither side could slot another until the six-minute mark of the second term when former Lion Taylor Smith sent through a set shot against her old side.

Even though the difference to that stage of the match was just 13 points, there was little to suggest that Brisbane would be able to bridge the gap, however Craig Starcevich hasn’t created a team that lies down and at three-quarter time there was just one point in it.

When play resumed for the final stanza it was the Swans that attacked with intent, rewarded with another quick Hamilton major, this time just 32 seconds into the quarter.

When Tanya Kennedy kicked the next goal 12 minutes later the difference was 15 and, with no ‘Wharfie time’ activation to fire up the Lions, the result was secure.

Ally Morphett was a standout for Sydney with 20 disposals, 28 hit outs and a game-high seven clearances, while Tanya Kennedy put the pressure on with eight tackles and a goal.

The Lions left too much to too few, but Isabel Dawes excelled to finish with 24 disposals and six clearances.

Brisbane turned its 2025 season around after a slow start but was never behind the eight ball to the degree Starcevich now finds his side, and the coach knows that any move has to start now if there is to be a chance of making finals.

Late knock could have lasting reverberations
On a day when little was going well for Brisbane, a late head knock sent Ruby Svarc to the bench and made everything a whole lot worse. Svarc had little influence through the match, but she’s a heart-and-soul player and any time on the sidelines could cost Brisbane dearly as it tries to save its season. While the exact nature of the injury wasn’t immediately known, a history of concussions will have Svarc and her teammates very concerned.

The Swans’ excitement machine
Cynthia Hamilton kicked two goals for the game with the second being the most exciting – if Hamilton’s reaction is anything to go by. It came just moments into the final term and gave the Swans some breathing space, something the Sydney forward celebrated with goalpost slaps, chest bumps, high fives and repeated screams.

Up next
The Swans face their biggest test when they travel to Arden Street Oval to take on North Melbourne on Sunday afternoon, while the Lions will be desperate to save their season in a Saturday twilight QClash against Gold Coast.

SYDNEY      1.3    2.4    3.5    5.7 (37)
BRISBANE   0.2    1.4    3.4    3.5 (23)

GOALS
Sydney: Hamilton 2, Smith, Kennedy, Grunden
Brisbane: C.Svarc, Davidson, Crozier

BEST
Sydney: Morphett, Hamilton, Molloy, Kennedy, Ham
Brisbane: Dawes, O’Dwyer, Campbell, Conway

INJURIES
Sydney: Nil
Brisbane: C.Svarc (head)

Crowd: TBC at Henson Park