The GIANTS went down in a hard-fought loss to Carlton in their last pre-season outing, giving up an early lead to the visitors to finish 6.3 (39) to 8.12 (60) at Blacktown International Sportspark.
Cam Bernasconi’s team put in an incredibly tough showing in slippery conditions, with both sides finding it difficult to get hands on the footy early.
The GIANTS shared the goalscoring load, rewarding early efforts out of stoppages from the ever-reliable Alyce Parker and Cambridge McCormick’s slick boot out of half-back, both critical weapons in attack.
Second-effort work rate, with impressive chase downs from both McCormick and Tarni Evans showcased the increased conditioning load the GIANTS have focused on through the pre-season.
Eleanor Brown and Katherine Smith were a strong pairing in the backline, with Brown enjoying her first ‘official’ minutes back at AFLW level since 2022.
Brown looked as though she hadn’t missed a beat, with her trademark agility and skills on full show, while Smith looks placed to continue the consistency she delivered throughout her 2024 season into 2025.
Draftees Sara Howley and Grace Martin both looked at home at AFLW level, with Martin playing well over size in halfback and Howley finding plenty of time with the ball in hand on the wing.
The GIANTS efficiency inside 50 and their clearance rate were key focal points leading into the match, with the team impressing in both areas and stringing together impressive passages despite the wet Sherrin.
Defensive efforts were also a significant takeaway, with the GIANTS finishing the match +24 in tackles, with key contributors across all three lines.
The GIANTS now begin their final preparations ahead of the 2025 AFLW season, looking towards a round one clash with the Bombers at Corroboree Group Oval, Manuka on Saturday, August 16.
AFLW Practice Match v Carlton
GIANTS 3.0 18 | 4.2 26 | 5.3 33 | 6.3 39
Blues 2.3 15 | 3.7 25 | 4.10 34 | 8.12 60
Goalkickers
GIANTS: G. Garnett 2, M. Brazendale, F. Davies, K. Srhoj, A. Eva
Blues: T. Bohanna 2, S. McKay 2, K. Skepper 2, B. Harrington, L. Keck
