Star midfielder Madison Prespakis led a remarkable comeback for Essendon, securing an eight-point victory over GWS and marking the team’s first win of the AFLW season. The Giants initially surged ahead, establishing a 25-point advantage at the beginning of the third quarter, seemingly on their way to a second victory. However, Prespakis ignited a fierce response from the Bombers, turning the game around.
During the third quarter, Prespakis delivered a stellar performance, amassing 13 disposals, six contested possessions, three clearances, and a goal, which turned the tide for Essendon in their eventual 6.7 (43) to 5.5 (35) win at Henson Park on Saturday afternoon.
Team captain Bonnie Toogood expressed immense pride in her team’s resilience, stating, “I’m genuinely proud of the group’s determination.” She acknowledged the challenges faced throughout the season, highlighting the team’s ability to push through adversity, especially during the critical moments of the match. “The first half didn’t go as we had hoped, but our performance in the third quarter showcased incredible individual efforts,” she noted.
This victory alleviates some pressure for Bombers coach Natalie Wood and leaves St Kilda as the only team in the league without a win. Conversely, it was a heartbreaking result for GWS, who had scored five of the first six goals but managed only a single point in the second half as Essendon’s relentless pressure took its toll.
At the final break, Essendon was trailing by just four points, and Toogood provided a passionate rallying speech during the huddle. “I’m always passionate and emotional—maybe it’s the Italian in me,” she remarked. “They were on the back foot, and I knew we had the upper hand. Our style of play was working.”
Essendon regained the lead when Daria Bannister scored a long-range goal after a swift transition. Emily Gough then capped off the comeback with a brilliant checkside kick from a forward-50 stoppage, securing the win.
Prespakis concluded the match with an impressive total of 35 disposals and five clearances, supported by Maddi Gay (21 disposals) and Georgia Gee (15), alongside ruck Steph Wales, who contributed 20 disposals, 14 hitouts, and eight clearances. In attack, Toogood (eight marks, one goal) and Gough (two goals) were pivotal, while Alex Morcom and Amy Gaylor each recorded nine intercepts defensively.
The Giants’ standout performers included Alyce Parker (25 disposals, eight tackles, two goals), Tilly Lucas-Rodd (26 disposals), and Cambridge McCormick (22 disposals).
Looking ahead, Essendon (1-7, 16th place) will face the finals-contending Western Bulldogs at Whitten Oval on Friday, while GWS (1-7, 15th place) is set to take on the formidable Geelong at Kardinia Park next Saturday.
