Tayla Harris Dominates as Melbourne Downs Essendon in AFLW Clash
Melbourne,VIC – Tayla Harris delivered a commanding performance,kicking three goals and racking up 17 disposals,as Melbourne defeated Essendon by 14 points in their AFLW Round 8 encounter. The Demons secured a 7.8 (50) to 5.4 (34) victory,solidifying their position in second place on the ladder with a 7-1 record.
Harris’s return to form is notably notable after a shoulder injury cut her 2023 season short, playing only one game. ”Last season I wasn’t able to play, so it’s a privilege to be out here. It’s heaps of fun playing footy,” Harris told the Seven Network.
Melbourne established early dominance,booting two goals within the first two minutes through Harris and Georgia Gall. Despite a goal from Essendon’s Grace Brooker, the Demons controlled the first quarter, winning the inside-50 count 11-2 and taking four marks inside 50m. They led by 19 points at halftime.
Harris continued to be a focal point in the third quarter, though a heavy collision with Essendon’s Amy Gaylor drew attention and could be reviewed for high contact. She later won a free kick but missed the resulting set shot.
Essendon rallied late, kicking the final two goals of the game, but Melbourne’s early lead proved insurmountable.
Madison Prespakis led essendon’s disposal count with a game-high 29, while elizabeth McNamara (24 disposals) and Maeve Chaplin (24 disposals, 606m gained) were key contributors for Melbourne.
The loss leaves essendon with a 3-5 record, jeopardizing their finals aspirations.
Aap
