Zak Butters expects full pre-season after minor ankle surgery
New Western Bulldogs recruit Zak Butters has undergone minor follow-up ankle surgery, but expects to be fit for pre-season. The former Port Adelaide midfielder had scar tissue cleaned out last Thursday after missing the final six games of 2026. Butters confirmed he is already walking around and will be ready for Round 1 next year.
Carlton confirms Lachie Cowan and Will Hayward hospitalised in separate incidents
Carlton has confirmed Lachie Cowan and Will Hayward were admitted to hospital in separate incidents on Sunday morning. Cowan received medical treatment and observation before being discharged, while Hayward admitted himself and received stitches for a minor head cut suffered in a fall. The club said both players have now received the necessary care.
North Melbourne defeat Fremantle by 28 points to secure finals qualification
North Melbourne have secured an AFLW finals berth after defeating Fremantle by 28 points at Arden Street Oval on Sunday, winning 9.4 (58) to 4.6 (30). The Kangaroos kept the Dockers scoreless in the third term to complete an undefeated season at the venue. Ash Riddell led North Melbourne with 38 disposals, while Jasmine Garner had 33.
Nick Dal Santo to depart as St Kilda AFLW coach
St Kilda AFLW coach Nick Dal Santo will step down following Saturday's match against Collingwood, concluding six seasons in the role. The Saints confirmed the decision on Friday, with the team winless after eight games this season. St Kilda also announced an independent review of its AFLW program, to be led by football executive Brad Lloyd.
Richmond registers interest in Brisbane defender Keidean Coleman
Richmond is among the clubs that have registered interest in Brisbane defender Keidean Coleman, according to Josh Gabelich. However, the Tigers will only make a play for Coleman if Jayden Short is traded.
Carlton beat Sydney by 27 points at Henson Park
Carlton bolstered its finals chances with a 27-point victory over Sydney at Henson Park on Sunday. The Blues secured an 8.11 (59) to 4.8 (32) win as Darcy Vescio kicked two goals in their return from a calf injury. However, the victory was soured by a fourth-quarter ankle injury to Carlton captain Abbie McKay.
Hawthorn move into top eight with 25-point win over Brisbane
Hawthorn have boosted their finals chances and moved back inside the top eight after defeating Brisbane by 25 points on Sunday. The Hawks took control from the second quarter to win 9.11 (65) to 6.4 (40) at Kennedy Community Centre, led by three goals from Aine McDonagh. The defeat leaves the Lions with a 2-7 record with three rounds remaining.
Adelaide defeat Richmond by 32 points at Ikon Park
Adelaide kept their finals hopes alive with a 32-point win over Richmond at Ikon Park on Saturday night, winning 9.8 (62) to 4.6 (30). Bouncing back from a Showdown loss, the Crows restricted the Tigers to one goal each quarter. Adelaide captain Ebony Marinoff led the match with 40 disposals and 13 tackles.
Gold Coast beat Melbourne by 22 points for sixth straight win
Gold Coast have secured their first ever AFLW victory over Melbourne, defeating the Demons 9.7 (61) to 5.9 (39) in Mackay on Saturday night. The 22-point triumph marked the Suns' sixth consecutive win and moved them to 7-2 on the season. Charlie Rowbottom collected 33 disposals, while Ava Usher, Mikayla Nurse and Havana Harris kicked two goals each.
Zak Butters joins Western Bulldogs on nine-year deal
Zak Butters has officially joined the Western Bulldogs on a nine-year contract as a restricted free agent. Port Adelaide chose not to match the offer and accepted pick No. 5 as draft compensation. The 26-year-old midfielder leaves Port Adelaide after playing 156 games.