Demons storm home against Cats to claim AFLW prelim berth
Melbourne comes from the clouds to beat Geelong in a thrilling AFLW elimination final, earning a week off and a preliminary final spot.
Melbourne secured a thrilling AFLW qualifying final victory over Geelong by four points, thanks to a late surge. The Demons took control with their final five goals, winning 8.8 (56) to 8.4 (52) on Saturday at Princes Park. After an early lead from Geelong's Chloe Scheer, the Demons fought back, kicking the only three goals in the last quarter.
Melbourne midfielder Liv Purcell played a crucial role in the comeback, contributing to their 34 possessions. This was the first time Geelong's Mick Stinear faced his former club, given Stinear's departure from Melbourne last season. Melbourne will have a week off, with Geelong's next match depending on the outcome of Sunday's Sydney-Western Bulldogs elimination final.
The game was delayed by lightning, but Melbourne's resilient spirit prevailed, led by Paxy Paxman, Chloe Scheer, and Alyssa Bannan.
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