Four-goal Austin gives Dees perfect start to new AFLW era
Melbourne's new dawn in the AFLW begins with a win, with recruit Mia Austin kicking four goals to give Demons coach Tom Wilson victory in his first match in charge.
Melbourne's Demons secured a commanding 19-point victory over Hawthorn in their inaugural AFLW match, marking the beginning of Tom Wilson's coaching tenure. Melbourne's new recruit Mia Austin shone brightly, kicking four goals to give Wilson his first win in charge. The game, held at Princes Park, saw Hawthorn tested by last year's preliminary finalists, but they were unable to breach the Demons' defense in the final term.
Liv Purcell, returning from a knee reconstruction, was a standout performer with 32 possessions and nine tackles. Despite a slow start, Hawthorn rallied, unveiling a formidable key-forward double act with Jacqueline Dupuy and Aine McDonagh. The Hawks also fielded impressive defensive efforts from Jenna Richardson and Lucy Wales.
Despite impressive contributions from Melbourne players Kate Hore, Tayla Harris, and Liv Purcell, the Demons ultimately prevailed. However, injury struck as ruck Jacinta Hose was forced out of the game due to an ankle issue, a blow considering her recent draft selection in 2023. The match saw Melbourne's captain Kate Hore and Austin star, with Hore also debuting after a long absence due to knee reconstructions.
Despite Hawthorn's late surge, Austin's goal at the start of the final quarter, combined with McNamara's contribution, secured Melbourne's triumph.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
