The Northern Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos showed no sign of rust as they shone in their practice match against Essendon.
The two teams headed out to Werribee’s Avalon Airport Oval for their only official practice match, with a big crowd in attendance.
After a below average performance in their first hit out against the Western Bulldogs in the wet, the reigning premiers showed again why they will be one of the teams to beat in a big win on Saturday.
New skipper Jasmine Garner led the way as the Kangaroos came away with a 15.5. (95)-2.2 (14) win.
The Bombers kicked the first goal of the game but then found the going tough, with their next goal not coming until the last quarter.
It was an even first quarter before the Kangaroos got their game going and were able to kick five goals in the second quarter.
Garner, Ash Riddell, Mia King and Nicole Bresnehan controlled the midfield and hit up a raft of forward options throughout the match.
Garner finished with three goals as did Irish woman Blaithin Bogue.
Bogue didn’t feature in her first season at the Kangaroos but is now in contention for a round one debut after an eye-catching performance.
High-profile trade recruit Eilish Sheerin impressed despite only playing the first half in her managed return from knee soreness, bolstering the Kangaroos’ backline.
Speaking to the club’s website after the game, Kangaroos forward Kate Shierlaw said it was a good game for their group.
“It was nice to bounce back after last week,” she said. “It’s a beautiful day in Werribee.
“The sun was shining and it’s one of those days you want to be out there playing footy.
“It was nice to get some flow in the game and get back to playing the way we like to play.”
Shierlaw herself thought she showed a bit of rust early before working her way into it.
She was impressed by the likes of Bogue and Sheerin.
“Blaithin it was her second full game ever of AFL footy great to see her using her weapons,” she said.
“Her speed and it was great to see her out there and I think she will be really valuable for us.
“The colours looked good on her [Sheerin]. Loved her power and speed and contest work for us, she’s going to add another dynamic in our blackline and be super for us.”
The Kangaroos play an intra club at Arden Street on Saturday, before all eyes turn to round one of the 2025 AFLW Season.
The Roos will travel down the highway to face Geelong in their season opener at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday, August 16.
Earlier in the day, the Western Jets girls lost to GWV Rebels, 3.7 (25)-3.2 (20).
The Rebels kicked the only goal of the final quarter to seal the win.
Charlie O’Connor Moreira, Polly Conway and Kiara Boyd were named the Jets best in the loss.
