Swans beat Geelong to reach first AFLW preliminary final
Chloe Molloy kicked three goals in the three-point victory, which also strengthened Sydney’s position in the race for the A$1 million McClelland Trophy prize.
Sydney have reached an AFLW preliminary final for the first time, defeating Geelong by three points to set up a meeting with North Melbourne for a grand final place.
Chloe Molloy finished with three goals and 15 disposals, while Maddie Quinn contributed 22 disposals, 18 hit-outs and a goal. Zippy Fish collected 25 disposals as the Swans advanced to their first preliminary final since joining the competition in 2022.
The victory also moved Sydney closer to the McClelland Trophy and its A$1 million prize. The award combines clubs’ finishing positions across the men’s and women’s competitions. Sydney earned 16 points from the men’s season and are assured of at least 15 from the women’s.
A Carlton victory over Hawthorn would guarantee Sydney the trophy. Melbourne and North Melbourne are no longer in contention for the award.
Sydney led by 10 points at three-quarter-time before Cynthia Hamilton’s second goal extended the margin to 16. Geelong responded through Chloe Scheer and Jacqueline Parry, but Scheer later hit the post with a set shot.
Geelong’s defeat completed a straight-sets finals exit following their four-point qualifying-final loss to Melbourne. Cats ruck Piper Dunlop was taken off on a stretcher during the third quarter following a head clash with Tanya Kennedy.
Molloy said a cancelled flight and further delays meant Sydney did not reach Geelong until about 8pm on Friday, leaving the team without a captain’s run.
