As the Perth Football League Women's Grand Finals approach, all eyes are on the standout players who could make a difference on the big stage. Here's a look at the key players to watch in each grade as they vie for premiership glory on Saturday August 31.
Toyota A Grade Women: Melville vs Wembley
In a match showcasing some of the best talent in the PFL, Melville and Wembley are set to clash in the Toyota A Grade Women Grand Final. Melville has won the last two meetings against Wembley this season, with their victory in the Semi Final securing their spot in the big dance.
Wembley, led by the halfway leader and last year’s winner of the Fairest and Best, Parris Laurie, will be eager to find their rhythm at 3pm. If their regular goal kickers Zoe Timmers and Jorja Schell manage to get free inside fifty, Melville could find themselves trailing on the scoreboard early. On the other hand, Melville's leaders will aim to take an early advantage, with Tessa Lynch providing crucial organisation across the field. Up forward, Waverley Jones, who has no trouble finding the goals will look to add to her season tally of 24 which secured her the A Grade Women’s leading goal kicker award.
This match promises to be an intense battle between two well-matched sides. If you can’t make it to Pentanet Stadium, you can catch all the action live on Streamer or listen to the commentary on SEN.
Toyota A Reserves Women: North Fremantle vs Curtin Uni Wesley
Pentanet Stadium hosts the Toyota A Reserves Women Grand Final, featuring a matchup between North Fremantle and Curtin Uni Wesley. Despite Curtin Uni Wesley finishing as minor premiers, North Fremantle earned their spot in the final by defeating them in the Qualifying Final.
For North Fremantle, the strong marking and accurate kicking of Tayla Bresland will be vital if they are to secure another flag, adding to their 2021 and 2022 titles. In the ruck, Lize Lawson's ability to get the first possession to the quick North Freo midfield could be a game-changer. If Curtin Uni Wesley wins centre clearances, they will rely on the steady hands of Jordan Dowie to transition the ball quickly out of defense.
Curtin Uni Wesley's Saynab Bayahow has had a terrific first season and along with Zoe Fielder, sits just two votes behind the leader at the halfway point in the competition's best and fairest count. Bayahow’s work rate in the midfield is impressive and the support of tough youngster Ruby York will be crucial in applying pressure to the North Fremantle lineup. Ellie White, the competition's leading goal kicker, has been a standout for Curtin Uni Wesley. Her ability to find the right spots and kick accurately is a significant asset, making the shootout between White and Bresland key to determining the A Reserves premier.
While Curtin Uni Wesley enters the Grand Final with a 0-3 record against the Magpies this season, they will be buoyed by a perfect record against all other sides in the grade. A tight five-point preliminary final win against North Beach has left the Tigers battle-hardened and ready to challenge North Fremantle once more.
Toyota B Grade Women: Baldivis vs Bullcreek Leeming
The Toyota B Grade will see a rematch of last year’s C1 Grand Final as Baldivis face off against Bullcreek Leeming in what promises to be a thrilling contest. Both teams defied the odds to defeat minor premiers Bassendean and earn their spots in the final.
Baldivis comes into the Grand Final with confidence after a dominant Qualifying Final win, but their narrow four-point victory against Bullcreek Leeming earlier in the finals series could be more telling. Key forward Kelsey Timms has been in fine form, featuring among the goal scorers in both finals. Her ability to find the goals will depend on the hard work of Sara Sammons and Sabreena McKinnon in the midfield. Veteran Tia Webb, making a strong comeback after a maternity break, will be crucial for Baldivis in overcoming the challenge posed by a resilient Bullcreek Leeming.
Bullcreek Leeming had to take the longer route to the Grand Final after a heartbreaking four-point loss in week one of the finals. With all three of their finals matches decided by seven points or less, the Bombers are well-prepared for a tight contest. Brianna Cleggett has been a standout in her hybrid ruck/midfield role, providing leadership and versatility. The O'Neill sisters, Kaitlyn and Juanita, have formed a formidable half-back line that has been key to shutting down opposition forwards. Meanwhile, young forward Keeley Smith's two goals in the semi-final against Bassendean highlight her growing importance to the team. Her forward pressure could be decisive in halting Baldivis' quick rebounds.
The Grand Final at Wyong Reserve is set to be one of the highlights of the PFL Grand Finals series, with the first bounce at 2pm.
Toyota C1 Women: Scarborough vs Trinity Aquinas
Richard Guelfi Reserve will host the Toyota C1 Women’s Grand Final between Scarborough and Trinity Aquinas. Scarborough enters the final with fresh legs, having enjoyed a four-goal win in their Qualifying Final.
Jessica Murray has been in scintillating form, kicking 23 goals in her last five games. Her uncanny goal sense and accuracy make her a significant threat to Trinity Aquinas. In the midfield, Amber Johns' combination of hard tackling and relentless running has been instrumental for Scarborough all season, while young ruck Zoe Bayliss will need to give her teammates first use of the ball. Though Murray is a standout, Scarborough's strength lies in the evenness across their squad, making them a formidable opponent.
Trinity Aquinas will be on the hunt for a second premiership in a row after winning the C2 Grand Final last year. Nadia Pisano’s work rate through the midfield will be critical for the Boomers if they are to prevail, along with key players Amy Lawrence and Montana Turnbull who have been standout performers for their side during 2024.
Toyota C2 Women: Kelmscott vs Koongamia
Kelmscott will face Koongamia at Wyong Reserve in a battle between two premiership-winning sides. Kelmscott have a perfect record in 2024 and are playing in their fourth consecutive Grand Final, having won the C3 Premiership in 2023. Captain Louise Knitter will celebrate a milestone 50th game, and she will hope to mark it with a premiership victory. Summer Yarran, the league’s leading goal scorer with 65 goals this season, will be pivotal for Kelmscott’s chances.
Koongamia, the highest-scoring side in the competition, boasts a powerful forward line with Breanna Narkle, Kathleen Prosser, and Kellie Austin all ranking in the top five goal scorers in the grade. They will be looking to win their second premiership in a row after winning C4 in their first season in the league last year. This matchup promises plenty of action as two high-powered offenses go head-to-head.
Toyota C3 Women: Ballajura vs Fremantle CBC
Ballajura enters their Grand Final against Fremantle CBC at Pentanet Stadium on the back of an undefeated season, one of the most dominant in PFL history. The Royals' forward line is stacked, with the top four goal scorers in the competition, including Lola Hill, who leads with 47 goals. Shana Murray's emergence as a ruck has bolstered a formidable midfield that includes Annelise Hill and Toniesha Quince.
The Fremantle CBC midfield will be a tough opponent, featuring State Women's Best on Ground Ella Ward and the speedy Violet Lawrence. The "Brick Wall" defense led by Ballajura's captain Megan Hockaday will be tested by Fremantle's attack, orchestrated by the dependable Sarsha Chisholm.
The expansive field of Pentanet Stadium could play a significant role in determining the outcome, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this highly anticipated clash. The action kicks off at 11am.
Toyota C4 Women: Swan Valley vs Armadale
The Toyota C4 Women’s Grand Final will see a clash between two of the competition's top teams as Swan Valley takes on Armadale. The regular season was closely contested, with Armadale finishing in first place despite strong competition from Swan Valley. Both teams secured their spots in the Grand Final through hard-earned victories, with Swan Valley benefiting from a week off after their Qualifying Final win.
Swan Valley’s forward line is spearheaded by Hannah Stephens, who has scored 45 goals this season, and Baylee Turner, who adds valuable support with her 23 goals. Meanwhile, Swan Valley's midfield, featuring Caitlin Mann and Tahlea Martin, will be crucial in maintaining their recent hot form. Mann is also a strong contender for the competition's fairest and best, trailing only Kayla Augustynek of Hills Rangers at the end of round 8 voting.
Minor premiers Armadale enter the Grand Final with confidence, holding a Round 5 victory over Swan Valley and coming off a dominant performance in the Preliminary Final, where they kept Scarborough scoreless. Tanika Eades will be a key player, providing strength both in the midfield and at Centre Half Forward. Jasmine Wynne adds another scoring option for Armadale, while Danielle D’Antoine offers consistency and endurance across all four quarters. The dynamic Lola Collard has been a game-changer in ruck and midfield roles, and her presence could tip the balance in this tightly contested matchup.
This match promises to be one of the most unpredictable of all seven Women’s Grand Finals, with both teams eager to claim the premiership glory.
The full Toyota Women’s Grand Final schedule can be viewed below.
Entry to all venues is $15 (Free for children 15 and under).
No alcohol is permitted to be brought into venues. Bags and vehicles will be subject to search on entry.
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