Hawthorn is dealing with several injuries following their heavy 39-point defeat to North Melbourne in the AFLW qualifying final. Key players Kaitlyn Ashmore and Aine McDonagh are among those sidelined as the Hawks prepare for a sudden-death semifinal.
During the match at Princes Park, Ashmore injured her right calf, while Emily Everist had to undergo a concussion assessment after a tackle by Kangaroos forward Tahlia Randall. Defender Laura Elliott sustained a chest injury in a collision with Vikki Wall, and McDonagh took a hit to her right knee from Erika O'Shea.
The Hawks will face the winner of the elimination final between Carlton and West Coast in the next round, following their second consecutive loss to North Melbourne — first by 49 points last week, then a 39-point defeat.
“This sudden-death clash will test the Hawks’ depth, especially with their injury concerns heading into the semifinal.”
The Blues and Eagles are scheduled to compete in their elimination final at Princes Park on Saturday afternoon, which will determine Hawthorn's opponent.
The Hawks, hindered by multiple injuries to key players during their latest loss, now prepare for a critical semifinal match against either Carlton or West Coast, which will challenge their resilience and squad depth.