MELBOURNE and Carlton headline a massive round of AFLW action as the finals race starts to heat up.

While North Melbourne is clearly the frontrunner for this year's premiership, Melbourne and Carlton loom as their biggest challengers and are hot on their heels. 

Speaking of the Roos, an injury-hit Hawthorn side will be out to end their incredible winning run when the two sides go head-to-head in Cairns to kick off round six.

Elsewhere, Brisbane will try to redeem itself after last week's shock loss to West Coast when it hosts Adelaide at Brighton Homes Arena, while Fremantle and the Western Bulldogs will battle it out in a match that has massive finals ramifications. 

St Kilda, Essendon and Collingwood are all still searching for their first wins of the 2026 season.

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

Hawthorn v North Melbourne, Cazalys Stadium
Friday, September 18, 5:45pm AEST

Last time: North Melbourne 5.12 (42) d Hawthorn 0.3 (3), QF 2025

What it means

The Hawks managed to get back on the winner's list last week, with a third-quarter blitz laying the platform for a strong victory over the Bulldogs. Daniel Webster's side now face footy's seemingly impossible task of taking on North Melbourne, although the conditions in Cairns might suit the Hawks. A tough task has become even tougher though, with captain Emily Bates (ACL) and young midfielder Laura Stone (concussion) both ruled out.

The Kangaroos held off a valiant Carlton outfit last week to keep their impeccable record intact. Darren Crocker's side have motored to a win-loss record of 5-0 to start 2026 and are showing no signs of slowing down. While it may look as though the gap is closing, the Roos have responded to every challenge thrown their way so far.

Players to watch

Who will step into the midfield void for the Hawks? She's already a key part of the rotation, but Jasmine Fleming is one to watch in the second half of 2026. A game-breaker with elite speed and power, Fleming is one of Hawthorn's most dangerous players when up and running. Injuries have plagued her career so far and a continued run of games may be all she needs to really break into the game's elite player category.

Erika O'Shea has really taken her game to another level this year. The dashing Roo's ability to break the lines, both with her speed and kicking, makes her such a weapon for the Kangas. O'Shea was one of North Melbourne's best in the narrow win over Carlton, racking up 27 disposals and 397 metres gained. The Hawks will need to shut her down if they're any chance of causing an almighty upset.

Tip: North Melbourne by 31 points

Collingwood v Geelong, Victoria Park
Saturday, September 19, 12:35pm AEST

Last time: Collingwood 4.6 (30) d Geelong Cats 3.6 (24), R8 2023

What it means

The Pies remain winless in 2026, but are starting to show promise in patches under Sam Wright. Their ball movement looks to be headed in the right direction and as key personnel begin to return, they'll start to be even more competitive in games. At the end of the day though, football is judged by wins and losses and until the Pies can end their drought, pressure will still remain.

The Cats are well and truly on their way to a top four spot, after edging out the Crows in a hotly contested clash in round five. New coach Mick Stinear has his side well placed, with a win-loss record of 5-1 ahead of a very friendly second half of the year. They've got a nice spread of contributors across the ground and have players of every age chipping in. Could they keep in touch with the Roos and Dees and earn the double chance and a home final?

Players to watch

Defender Tarni White, 25, has been a rare shining light for the Pies this year. White earned seven coaches' votes in last week's loss to the Suns after a strong performance with 28 disposals, 14 intercepts and 642 metres gained. If she continues this form, she'll be in the mix as an All-Australian squad member.

Chantel Emonson has been like a new recruit for Geelong in 2026, after sitting out the 2025 season to welcome her first child. The Geelong veteran has been a calm head down back, where her drive out of defence has really helped the Cats. After captain Meg McDonald retired last year, Emonson has stepped up beautifully alongside the likes of Claudia Gunjaca to help guide Geelong's young defenders. 

Tip: Geelong by 37 points

Melbourne v Carlton, Ikon Park
Saturday, September 19, 1:05pm AEST

Last time: Melbourne 7.8 (50) d Carlton 1.2 (8), R5 2022

What it means

The Dees have a huge fortnight coming up. The young and inspiring Blues are the challenge this week, before a huge clash against North Melbourne in round seven. Tom Wilson's side have jumped every hurdle they've come across so far this season, but their biggest challenges await. The loss of Eliza McNamara certainly doesn't help things, but fortunately for the Dees, their depth is one of their biggest strengths. 

The Blues lost their first game of 2026 but didn't lose any admirers, after going down to the Kangaroos by 10 points in round five. Their defence against the two-time reigning premiers was rock solid and they'll no doubt have taken a lot of confidence out of that performance against the competition's benchmark. As impressive as they've been, getting back on the winner's list now to keep in touch with the top four is very important. 

Players to watch

The inclusion of Maeve Chaplin a few weeks ago has made Melbourne's already staunch defence even stronger. Chaplin, who earned a maiden All-Australian blazer last year, has picked up from where she left off, ruling the airways in Melbourne's back half. She's a great one-on-one defender and reads the play beautifully as one of the League's best intercept players. The Blues will need to ensure they lower their eyes heading inside 50 to avoid having Chaplin pick things off at will.

Speaking of great defenders, Harriet Cordner is in some form right now and may just be the best defender in the competition. The Carlton veteran is a renowned work horse, who leaves no stone unturned in her quest to become the best footballer she can be. Another strong interceptor who makes great decisions, rival clubs would love someone of Cordner's calibre behind the ball in their own sides.

Tip: Melbourne by 17 points

Port Adelaide v Sydney, Alberton Oval
Saturday, September 19, 2:05pm ACST

Last time: Sydney 6.9 (45) d Port Adelaide 3.12 (30), R6 2023

What it means

The Power currently hold a win-loss record of 2-3 and their season is at risk of starting to slip away. Inconsistency has plagued Glenn Strachan's side in 2026, who have lost their past two meetings. Their run home is pretty tough and while their final fortnight consists of very winnable games against Collingwood and St Kilda, they'll need to make sure they're within touching distance of the top eight for those games to really matter.

The Swans have had a rotten run of injuries in 2026, but continue to deliver week-in, week-out. Midfield maestro Sofia Hurley is the latest big name casualty on the list, having undergone surgery this week on a serious ankle injury. Despite all the injury chaos, the Swans have stuck to the task and played some really good footy under new coach Colin O'Riordan. They've given themselves a platform to really push towards the top four.

Players to watch

Port Adelaide skipper Justine Mules-Robinson is set to bring up game 100 this weekend. A well-respected figure in AFLW circles, Mules-Robinson won three flags with Adelaide during her early days and has since become one of the Power's most important leaders. Mules-Robinson is one of the hardest workers at the club and someone who always puts the team first.

With Sofia Hurley sidelined, who will help step into the void in the on-ball brigade? Captain Lucy McEvoy went back into defence last week but had attended over 73 per cent of centre bounces in the first month, while Darcy Moloney is another option for O'Riordan and his staff. Fortunately, the Swans have built some pretty sound depth in that part of the ground. 

Tip: Sydney by 17 points

Fremantle v Western Bulldogs, Cockburn ARC Oval
Saturday, September 19, 1:05pm AWST

Last time: Fremantle 4.11 (35) d Western Bulldogs 3.3 (21), W10 2024

What it means

The Dockers are one of half a dozen teams in a bit of a logjam in the middle of the ladder, which means this game at home against fellow finals aspirants the Bulldogs is a real must-win clash. Kiara Bowers continues to prove age is just a number, while Gabby Newton keeps improving each and every week. 

The Dogs have made some massive inroads this year, but were outclassed by Hawthorn in the second half last week. Tam Hyett's side struggled to combat the red-hot Aine McDonagh in the front half, while Hawthorn were too classy through the midfield, too. An interstate trip to Perth looms as a big task, but the Bulldogs have proved they can definitely rise to the challenge.

Players to watch

It's time for Eden Zanker to step up and continue what she did in the second half last week. The star Docker is yet to set the world on fire in purple, kicking just three goals from five games. The 2023 All-Australian is one of the premier forwards in the competition when up and running, so the Dockers need to find a way to unlock her potential.

Elisabeth Georgostathis is tough to miss on the field, sporting a ‘Batman'-style mask in 2026. But she's also playing some really solid footy and was one of the Bulldogs' best in the loss to the Hawks. The Dogs tough nut went back into the midfield mix that day and really tried to get things going. Her versatility makes her a really valuable player for the coaching staff.

Tip: Western Bulldogs by two points

Greater Western Sydney v Richmond, Corroboree Group Oval Manuka
Sunday, September 20, 12:35pm AEST

Last time: Richmond 5.8 (38) d GWS 4.3 (27), W2 2024

What it means

The Giants couldn't match it with the Swans in the Sydney Derby, going down by 31 points. Cam Bernasconi's side are bound to have ebbs and flows given their age profile, so it's tough to get a read on what the Giants will produce each week. Their win-loss record is now at 1-4, but it feels like they're going into each game with a genuine chance of shaking things up.

The Tigers have moved into 10th spot on the AFLW ladder with a win-loss record of 3-2, but it's the green shots that are starting to show that are really encouraging. Isabel Bacon has broken out in the past few weeks, relishing the opportunity to play a more significant midfield role. Olivia Wolmarans continues to shine, while players like Emelia Yassir keep improving. The addition of Ellie McKenzie is such a boost heading into the second half of the season, too.

Players to watch

Alyce Parker's return to this Giants side has had such an impact. Firstly, she's such a good leader and having an experienced body around the coalface does wonders for the Giants' young midfielders. But secondly, she's playing some really good footy. Parker was easily the Giants' best against the Swans, kicking two goals from 26 disposals and nine clearances. 

No Mon Conti, no worries? Not quite, but Isabel Bacon has stepped into the void with aplomb. Bacon has starred in the engine room in recent weeks, dominating for the Tigers both offensively and defensively. She's such a hard worker, is clean with the footy and the Saints had no answers for her on the weekend. Bacon polled nine coaches' votes that day, making it three consecutive weeks in a row that she's polled. 

Tip: Richmond by nine points

Essendon v Gold Coast, Windy Hill
Sunday, September 20, 1:05pm AEST

Last time: Essendon 5.6 (36) d Gold Coast Suns 4.3 (27), W6 2024

What it means

The Bombers are one of just three sides in the competition yet to register a win and the pressure is about to increase in a big way. The Dons certainly don't have an easy fixture in the second half of the season, so banking wins where they can will be crucial. An opportunity on their home deck against an inexperienced Suns outfit presents a golden chance. It's time for Natalie Wood's side to flick the switch.

The Suns have been super impressive in 2026 and currently sit sixth on the ladder with a win-loss record of 3-2. Their youth is shining bright and they've got contributors all over the ground. One week it's Havana Harris, the next it's Ava Usher, last week it was Sunny Lappin. They're building a list which will one day be the envy of the rest of the competition.

Players to watch

It's been a really tough year for Bombers fans, but Nalu Brothwell looks like a player that will be exciting to watch for a long time. Brothwell kicked a wonderful goal on the run against the Dockers, highlighting the sort of player she could be at the top level. She's strong in the air, clean at ground level and is really agile. 

Plenty of focus has gone to the Suns' young guns, but don't forget about Charlie Rowbottom. Rowbottom has been fantastic in 2026, leading from the front and dominating in the engine room. The star Sun has moved into equal fourth in the coaches' votes this year and would be right in the mix for a third All-Australian blazer if she keeps this up.

Tip: Gold Coast by 19 points

St Kilda v West Coast, RSEA Park
Sunday, September 20, 3:05pm AEST

Last time: West Coast 6.6 (42) d St Kilda 4.4 (28), R3 2025

What it means

It's no secret that the Saints haven't reached the heights that were expected of them in 2026, having lost five games in a row to start their campaign. They were unable to deal with Richmond's pressure on the weekend, but there were some positive signs for fans to get excited by. Coach Nick Dal Santo is adamant that his side are improving, despite the win-loss record.

The Eagles finally got themselves on the winners list this season, causing a big upset over the Lions in round five. Daisy Pearce's troops took away the Lions weapons and had the game played on their terms. Can they use that win to build some momentum heading into the back half of the year? Only time will tell, but they'll go in favourites in their matches against the Saints and Dons, before a big Western Derby in round eight.

Players to watch

It's been a dark year for the Saints, but young gun Jade McLay has definitely been a bright spark. The Calder Cannons product booted four goals against the Tigers in what was an exceptional display for a third-gamer that saw her earn the Telstra AFLW Rising Star nomination. She's tough, physical and has huge upside as a player, who could eventually move into the midfield. 

Ella Roberts was unbelievable against the Lions, producing the second-best performance by an Eagle ever in the AFLW competition, per Champion Data's Player Ratings system. Roberts absolutely stuffed the stats sheet producing one of the best games of the season. If the Saints have any chance of winning their first game of the season, they've got to find a way to shut Roberts down.

Tip: West Coast by 22 points

Brisbane v Adelaide, Brighton Homes Arena
Sunday, September 20, 5:05pm AEST

Last time: Brisbane 6.5 (41) d Adelaide 6.2 (38), R4 2025

What it means

The Lions have struggled for continuity in 2026 as player availability has taken its toll. Ally Anderson missed the start of the season, Courtney Hodder has been unsighted and the likes of Dakota Davidson, Ruby Svarc and Marlo Graham have also missed games at different stages. A shock loss to the Eagles last week raised eyebrows, but it isn't time to hit the panic button just yet. The Lions have been in this situation before and are as well-drilled and coached as any team in the competition. 

The Crows are going through a year of transition. There's been plenty of change, both on and off the field, so it'll take some time for things to gel. Their best has been really good this year, but they've also battled in other games. As it stands, the Crows are 2-3, but we'll know a bit more about their finals hopes in the next month.

Players to watch

With Charlie Mullins ruled out with concussion, the Lions are down a player in their centre bounce mix. Keep an eye on how Ally Anderson fares in her second game back from a hamstring problem. Anderson was solid last week with 20 touches from 70 per cent game time, but she should improve again this week after having blown out the cobwebs. 

Is Grace Egan in line for more midfield minutes this week? The former Tiger attended her first centre bounce in round five in what could be a sign of things to come. Egan has found a role at half-forward for the Crows under new coach Ryan Davis this year, but has shown an ability to impact AFLW games in the engine room previously. Ebony Marinoff, Sarah Goodwin, Teah Charlton and Juliet Kelly have been the go-to's in the midfield this year, but Egan could add something different to the mix. 

Tip: Brisbane by seven points

HAWTHORN'S women are giant killers, ending the longest winning streak in AFLW, AFL and VFL history.

Applying relentless pressure, the Hawks ground down two-time defending AFLW premier North Melbourne on Friday night for a seven-point triumph in Cairns, 4.8 (32) to 3.7 (25).

HAWKS V ROOS Full match details and stats

The Kangaroos' previous loss was the 2023 Grand Final. They opened 2024 with a win and a draw, before starting their historic 32-game winning streak.

It is a great start to the weekend for Hawthorn, ahead of Saturday's AFL preliminary final against Brisbane at the MCG. The Hawks men will also start underdogs against the two-time defending premier.

This is Hawthorn's greatest AFLW win since it joined the league in 2022, the victory taking it to a 4-2 win-loss record for the season.

Hawthorn lost captain Emily Bates to an ACL rupture last weekend, but fellow onballer Jasmine Fleming stepped up with surely the best match of her 48-game career.

Fleming was Hawthorn's firestarter in the second half, quelling North captain Jasmine Garner and leading the charge as it overcame a 10-point deficit at the main break.

"That was just such a hard fourth quarter. The pressure was on that whole game with North, and really at the end we had to lock down," Fleming told Fox Footy after the game.

"I'm so proud of the group, that was amazing.

"I hope we made her (Bates) proud, I wish she was out there. It's bloody tough, what she's going through, but to get the win for her is pretty special.''

Mikayla Williamson kicked the only goal of the third term in blustery and humid conditions, bringing Hawthorn to within three points at the last break.

Four behinds put Hawthorn ahead for the first time since the opening term, before Cairns native Jac Dupuy kicked a goal to give it a seven-point buffer.

Blaithin Bogue's goal brought it back to a one-point game, before Hawks ruck Lucy Wales snapped superbly inside the last two minutes for the sealer.

"I kicked my first goal a couple of weeks ago, so to think that went through, it's pretty unreal," Wales said.

North was clearly gettable, coming off a five-day break and playing in Cairns for the first time. It had held off Carlton last Sunday by 10 points with the lowest score in its streak.

The Roos also had lost Libby Birch and Kate Shierlaw to injury and Emma Kearney was managed - all frontline North players.

Dupuy set the agenda in the first quarter with a brutal tackle on Ruby Tripodi that left the North player with a bandaged head for the rest of the game.

Hawthorn forward Poppy Stockwell, who kicked its opening goal, also returned to the field after needing treatment for a cut near her eye.

Fleming racked up 25 disposals and a team-high four clearances, while Tamara Smith was also outstanding in defence for the Hawks.

North onballer Eilish Sheerin had a game-high 30 possessions, and Garner ended with 29, after amassing 21 in the first half.

Two team statistics were telling. 

North led tackles at half-time 35-29 and inside-50s 19-10. 

By the end of the game, Hawthorn had squared tackles at 64-64 and won the inside-50s 34-30. 

North also kicked its lowest score on Friday night since 2023.

A whale of a goal
Hawthorn ruck Lucy Wales has been having a sensational season but it's unlikely that when it finishes any moment will stand out above the goal she snapped in the fourth quarter. With the margin at one point and the clock under two minutes there was a sense the Roos were about to snatch the win from under the Hawks' noses, but Wales thought differently, forcing her exhausted body into yet another pack and kicking truly to seal the result.

Hawks salute as undercard underdogs
The AFLW has been experimenting with double-headers this year, but Friday night’s entertainment was a twin treat of an unusual kind. The Kangaroos, with back-to-back flags and 32 consecutive wins on the board, found themselves as the away team in a curtain raiser to the AFL Cairns Women's Grand Final between North Cairns and Centrals. The Roos weren't even the only 'North' on the bill - no wonder they were flustered!

HAWTHORN                1.0   1.2   2.4   4.8 (32)
NORTH MELBOURNE    1.4   2.6   2.7   3.7 (25)

GOALS
Hawthorn: Williamson, Wales, Stockwell, Dupuy
North Melbourne: Riddell, Eddey, Bogue

BEST
Hawthorn: Fleming, Wales, Williamson, McDonagh, Richardson
North Melbourne: Garner, Sheerin, Riddell, Rennie

INJURIES
Hawthorn: Nil
North Melbourne: Nil

Crowd: TBC at Cazaly's Stadium