The time has finally come, and our Freo Dockers women are ready to shine!

History is being made this weekend with the commencement of the Women’s AFL! The first round clash between the Fremantle Dockers and the Western Bulldogs will take place at 4:40pm (WST), Saturday 4 February at VU Whitten Oval. The blockbuster will be broadcast live nationally on Channel 7 Mate and on Fox Footy. I can’t wait!

Fremantle had two successful practice matches leading up to round 1 and they will be looking to continue that form against a dangerous Bulldogs side. The Dogs defeated the WA side in the exhibition match by 13 points in June last year, so the Freo ladies will be out for revenge.

There has been a lot of talk around town of these two teams possibly going head-to-head in the Grand Final clash – The Freo women may win a flag before the Freo men! Can you imagine…?!

Take a look at who will suit up in the purple and white on Saturday night:

Back: Belinda Smith, Tayla Bresland, Ashley Sharp
Half Back: Tiah Haynes, Hayley Miller, Stephanie Cain
Centre: Kara Donnellan
Half Forward: Cassie Davidson, Dana Hooker, Lara Filocamo
Forward: Ebony Antonio, Amy Lavell, Brianna Green
Ruck: Gemma Houghton
Followers: Kirby Bentley, Melissa Caulfield
Interchange: Gabby O’Sullivan, Demi Okely, Tarnica Golisano, Akec Chuot, Stacey Barr, Taylah Angel
Emergencies: Taryn Priestly, Beatrice Devlyn

In AFLW rules, 16 players are named on the field for each side with six allowed on the bench, compared to the men’s rules which allow 18 players on the field with four on the bench. One reason for this difference is to factor in harsh weather conditions (heat) that the AFLW could face in February and March.

Every player named in the side has featured in at least one pre-season game and coach Michelle Cowan says the Freo side will be ready for the epic clash. The Dockers will be lead by captain Kara Donnellan, who has plenty of experience in leading a side to big games. Donnellan helped the Swan Districts WAWFL side to two premierships over the last three years.

All eyes will be on the AFLW this weekend! Make sure you tune in and check out these talented ladies in action. Commentators seem to be naming the Bulldogs as the favourites to win however, I will stick with my team and tip the Fremantle Dockers to beat the Western Bulldogs by 15 points. GO FREO!

Let us know your #AFLWDogsFreo predictions at @TweetPerth and @EmmaLianaPayne