DREAMTIME in Darwin headlines what promises to be an exciting celebration of culture and community for Indigenous Round in 2026.
The Bombers and Tigers will clash in the annual match up in Darwin, as Essendon looks to finally open its account this year.
Elsewhere, the Dees and Lions are set to do battle in a blockbuster game on Sunday, in a match that could have big top four ramifications.
The Crows and Eagles will both look to notch their first wins of the season, while Carlton faces its first big interstate test for the year when it heads to Perth to take on the Dockers.
Here's who and what to look out for across round three as well as a tip for each match.
North Melbourne v Western Bulldogs, UTAS Stadium
Saturday, August 29, 12.35pm AEST
Last time: North Melbourne 8.11 (59) d. Western Bulldogs 0.4 (4), W5 2024
What it means
The Kangaroos remain the team to beat in 2026 and have picked up from where they left off, having claimed the past two premierships. In last week's clash against Brisbane, the Roos staved off a mini fightback from Craig Starcevich's side to continue their incredible streak. Star midfielders Jasmine Garner and Ash Riddell haven't missed a beat, while the likes of Erika O'Shea and Tahlia Randall are also in some strong form. It's hard to see anyone coming close to these Roos right now.
The Bulldogs have won two games in a row and are one of just five sides that remain unbeaten through the first fortnight of the season. Midfielder Isabelle Pritchard has started her campaign in fine style and was dominant against the Tigers last weekend. Injuries to Ellie Blackburn and De Berry do leave a hole in their on-ball brigade, so it will be up to the likes of Jess Fitzgerald, Dom Carruthers, Sarah Poustie and perhaps Elaine Grigg to help fill the void.
Players to watch
Erika O'Shea will miss with concussion, while Taylah Gatt (groin) and Amy Smith (ACL) are also on the sidelines. That means that the influence of Tess Craven will be paramount when the Roos take on the Dogs. Craven started the season strongly with two goals from 20 disposals in round one, but was held to just 11 touches last week against the Lions. Given the injuries to the Kangaroos' prime ball movers on the outside, Craven will need to be at the top of her game.
Isabelle Pritchard may have already polled five best and fairest votes in two games after a barnstorming start to 2026. The Dogs on-baller dominated against the Tigers last week, using her big frame to great effect against Richmond’s smaller midfielders. Pritchard's a well balanced midfielder who works hard both ways and is finding ways to hit the scoreboard.
Tip: North Melbourne by 40 points
Kuwarna v Waalitj Marawar, Unley Oval
Saturday, August 29, 2.05pm ACST
Last time: Adelaide 7.6 (48) d. West Coast 4.7 (31), R9 2025
What it means
The Crows are off to a tough start under new coach Ryan Davis, but that's to be expected after a big off-season of change. Aside from the off-field movement, the Crows have also lost Chelsea Randall and Danielle Paredes, in addition to the likes of Anne Hatchard, Stevie-Lee Thompson and Zoe Prowse. The Crows may not be the AFLW powerhouse they've once been as their club goes through a period of transition.
The Eagles are arguably the side under the most pressure right now, after disappointing losses to the Giants and Suns in consecutive weeks. Daisy Pearce's Eagles were one of the big improvers last year, but they desperately need a win to resurrect their season. With fixtures against the Dees and Lions to come, if the Eagles don't get a win this week, there's a real chance they're 0-5.
Players to watch
While the Crows have lost plenty of star power, one player who has thrived with additional responsibility is Sarah Goodwin. An exciting talent, Goodwin has continued her upwards trajectory through the midfield this year, starring alongside captain Ebony Marinoff. A tough customer who is also a good ball user, Goodwin has a seriously bright future.
Despite the Eagles' struggles this year, Amy Franklin has had a strong start to her campaign as she continues her growth and development as a key position player. Franklin has booted four goals from two outings this year, but has been far more involved this season than she has previously. She's a strong mark and a real competitor.
Tip: Kuwarna by 14 points
Sydney v Euro-Yroke, C.ex Coffs International Stadium
Saturday, August 29, 4.35pm AEST
Last time: St Kilda 6.6 (42) d. Sydney 4.2 (26), W2 2024
What it means
The Swans were so impressive in last week's win over the Bombers, putting a tough week behind them to take their season record to 2-0. The difficulty of going out to perform in a football match after such an emotional and tumultuous week can't be understated. They've got stars on every line and are well positioned to push towards a possible top four spot this year if they can continue this run of form.
The blowtorch is well and truly on Nick Dal Santo and the Saints after a horror first fortnight, which has included big losses to the Blues and Cats. The Saints are struggling to move the footy and their defence is under siege far too often. Euro-Yroke is in desperate need of a big response this week against the Swans, because going 0-3 after a maiden finals appearance last year would be a tough hurdle to overcome.
Players to watch
The likes of Matilda Scholz and Mim Strom are rightfully regarded as the best rucks in the League, but don't forget about Swans tall Ally Morphett. Morphett is one of just two players in the competition to have been rated as the best player on the ground in both matches played this year. She's an absolute star and the Saints will have a tough time trying to quell her influence.
A shining light for the Saints so far this year has been the form of midfielder Georgia Patrikios. The 25-year-old is fit and firing and has found plenty of the footy across the first two matches, despite the Saints' struggles. The Calder Cannons product is an absolute ball magnet and is doing her very best to turn her side's form around.
Tip: Sydney by 24
Greater Western Sydney v Yartapuulti, Corroboree Group Oval Manuka
Sunday, August 30, 12.35pm AEST
Last time: Port Adelaide 11.15 (81) d. Greater Western Sydney 3.6 (24), R12 2025
What it means
The Giants were the surprise packet of round one, but came crashing back to earth after being comprehensively defeated by Narrm, although they won't be the first or last team to do that given the Demons' stocks this year. Cam Bernasconi's side were just outclassed by a strong Dees outfit on the day, who had plenty of contributors all over the ground. After winning just two matches last year, starting the season at 1-1 is a positive for the Giants.
The Power took care of business against the Dockers in round one, but were unable to get the job done against Hawthorn in round two. The Power looked the better of the two sides in the first half against the Hawks, but something clicked after the main break in that game for Hawthorn and the Power didn't have any answers. It's tough to get a gauge on Glenn Strachan's side this season, but banking a win on the road against the Giants seems crucial to their finals chances.
Players to watch
It's been so good to see midfielder Alyce Parker back to her best after an injury-hit campaign last year. A tough on-baller who loves the contest, Parker has been a huge asset to Bernasconi's midfield unit again this season. A seasoned campaigner, Parker's influence on this young group is really important.
Former Swan Ella Heads is really finding her feet at Alberton. A good decision-maker with strong foot skills, Heads is vital in how the Power moves the ball from defensive 50 to inside 50. Heads is already a part of the Power's leadership group, which further highlights her importance and value inside the four walls.
Tip: Yartapuulti by 19 points
Narrm v Brisbane, Casey Fields
Sunday, August 30, 1.05pm AEST
Last time: Brisbane 9.2 (56) d. Melbourne 6.7 (43), QF 2025
What it means
The Dees have looked great under new coach Tom Wilson this year, winning both matches against the Hawks and Giants. Midfielder Liv Purcell hasn't missed a beat on return from an ACL injury and is one of just two players to poll the maximum 20 coaches' votes in the first fortnight. Kate Hore, Tyla Hanks and Eliza McNamara are just so reliable, but Narrm's youth are also starting to step up when it matters. The clash against the Lions will be a great litmus test to see where they're at.
The Lions gave the Roos a bit of a scare last week and did so without some of their key players, so will no doubt have found plenty of confidence from that performance. Things won't get much easier against the Dees, however, who have started really strongly this year. Key forward Dakota Davidson, back from suspension, is a huge inclusion, but like the Dees, one of the most exciting things about the Lions this year is that their youngsters like Marlo Graham and Claudia Wright are having an impact.
Players to watch
Narrm's Jordyn Allen would be right in the mix for the Telstra AFLW Rising Star award this year. While she's yet to receive an official nomination, Allen has been so impressive in her first two games at AFLW level. Calm and composed with ball in hand, Allen is an elite ball user who makes excellent decisions and loves to use her speed to break the lines and help the Dees move the ball.
With Ally Anderson sidelined with a hamstring injury, the Lions have needed others to step up in her absence. While her numbers certainly don't jump off the page, Belle Dawes' impact this year from an energy and leadership perspective has been profound. Dawes has carried the bulk of the centre bounce load and has brought her usual pressure and intensity around the contest.
Tip: Narrm by two points
Gold Coast v Geelong, People First Stadium
Sunday, August 30, 3.05pm AEST
Last time: Geelong 10.7 (67) d. Gold Coast 1.3 (9), R1 2025
What it means
The Suns caught the attention of the footy world last week with an electrifying win over the Eagles. While Rhyce Shaw's young troops struggled in wet conditions against the Dogs in round one, they were far better on a dry deck against the Eagles where they showed the AFLW world what they are capable of. While there's bound to be dips and rises in form given the list profile, a good test awaits this weekend to see where they’re at.
Geelong responded to its round one drubbing from North Melbourne with an obliteration of the Saints in round two. New coach Mick Stinear resisted the temptation of mass changes at selection after that loss and his side repaid the faith, annihilating the Saints in what was the biggest win in Cats history. After finishing 13th last year, it looks like the Cats have improved and will be in the finals mix, but only time will tell.
Players to watch
If you missed the Suns' win over the Eagles, go back and watch it again and keep a close eye on key forward Alannah Welsh, who booted five goals in just her second ever AFLW match. A powerful forward with great athleticism, the Cats will need to have a plan to stop her from catching fire again this week.
Key forward Jackie Parry was enormous in Geelong's drubbing of the Saints last week, booting six goals in a strong display. The Saints had no answers for the veteran tall, who capitalised on the Cats' midfield dominance in what ended up being a really big day.
Tip: Geelong by seven points
Collingwood v Hawthorn, Victoria Park
Sunday, August 30, 3.05pm AEST
Last time: Collingwood 3.12 (30) def. by Hawthorn 5.9 (39), R6 2025
What it means
Collingwood is in a world of hurt at the moment and the best way to change that is to get a win on the board. AFL.com.au's Riley Beveridge reported last week on The W Show that there are sections of the playing group who have "genuine concerns" about the direction of the AFLW program and their on-field performances have had a lack of connection, too. There are alarm bells ringing right now.
The Hawks bounced back from a tough defeat to the Dees in round one with an impressive victory on the road against the Power. Daniel Webster's side flicked a switch at half-time and came out breathing fire in the second half to post their first win of the season. The forward combination of Aine McDonagh and Jac Dupuy continues to work wonders, while their clearance game also came to life in the second half last week. A win against the Pies is a non-negotiable so that they don't fall too far behind the frontrunners in 2026.
Players to watch
Is it time to unleash Ash Centra in the midfield? Collingwood's star youngster had an injury-interrupted pre-season so has spent the majority of her time forward this year, but it might be time for the Pies to properly unleash their biggest weapon. Centra was an elite ball-winner throughout her junior years and can use her size and strength to great effect around stoppages. She's a great ball user and has plenty of explosive potential and may just spark something for Sam Wright's side.
Is Hawthorn ruck Lucy Wales the most important player in the competition? The Hawks' finals run last year looked doomed from the beginning with Wales sidelined through injury, but she's been back to her best this year, polling 16 out of 20 coaches' votes so far. Wales' battle with Power star Matilda Scholz was great to watch and Collingwood's ruck stocks face a big challenge in trying to curb her influence this week.
Tip: Hawthorn by 27 points
Walyalup v Carlton, Cockburn ARC Oval
Sunday, August 30, 3.05pm AWST
Last time: Carlton 5.2 (32) d. Fremantle 3.5 (23), R7 2025
What it means
Walyalup won its first game of the season in round two, taking down an under-fire Collingwood side. Defence has been a strength of Lisa Webb's side in recent times, but finding a way to generate more score will allow the Dockers to challenge the top teams. A big test against the Blues this week will give them a sense of whether or not they can challenge for finals this year.
Carlton has picked up from where it left off last year, with two strong wins to open their 2026 account. The midfield is firing on all cylinders, while Mathew Buck's front half is also humming with an array of contributors. Competition for places right now is fierce, which is a strong sign of a good team. Their first interstate trip of the season will bring about its own challenge, but the Blues are looking good right now.
Players to watch
Veteran Kiara Bowers just continues to get things done for the Dockers. A fierce competitor who thrives around stoppages, Bowers is a tackling machine who loves to get her hands dirty. The 34-year-old has no trouble finding the footy herself and has started the 2026 season really strongly. If the Dockers are to get the win, she'll have to have another big day.
What a find Nell Morrison-Dalton has been for the Blues. Plucked from their VFL program, Morris-Dalton had a sensational game against the Crows, booting three goals from 18 disposals. The 25-year-old looked ultra-dangerous in attack and the Dockers will need to have a plan to stop her on Sunday.
Tip: Carlton by 23 points
Essendon v Richmond, TIO Stadium
Sunday, August 30, 6.50pm ACST
Last time: Richmond 3.10 (28) def. by Essendon 6.7 (43), R3 2025
What it means
The Bombers are winless in 2026 so far, but have come up against top four fancies in Brisbane and Sydney. Dreamtime in Darwin presents the perfect opportunity for Nat Wood's side to get back on the winners list and lay the platform for the rest of their season. Maddy Prespakis has found plenty of the footy this year, while Amy Gaylor also continues to improve. Winning the midfield battle will be pivotal in order to give the likes of Bonnie Toogood and Sophie Alexander ample opportunity to impact.
Richmond's start to 2026 under new coach Jarrad Donders has been solid, defeating a lowly Collingwood side in round one before putting up a good fight against the Bulldogs last week. The loss of Ellie McKenzie through injury has really hurt, but the positive of that is it's opened up more opportunities for the likes of Sierra Grieves, Emilia Yassir and Isabel Bacon.
Players to watch
Georgia Nanscawen has been a star of this Essendon side in recent times, but is yet to hit her straps in 2026. The veteran's centre bounce attendance has dropped from 81 per cent last year to 55 per cent this year, with the Dons opting to give some extra midfield minutes to the likes of Gaylor and draftee Maggie Johnstone. It's usually tough conditions up in Darwin, where Nanscawen's cleanliness at stoppage could really come to the fore.
Richmond key forward Olivia Wolmarans has shown some really positive signs in her first two games at AFLW level. The young Tiger has booted four goals already this year, but it's been her aerial presence, threat around the goal and goal nous that has caught the eye in particular. It's not hard to see why the Tigers pounced with pick No.1.
Tip: Essendon by 13 points
