AFL
TABtouch Team: Freo flip one for Friday night footy

Fremantle has confirmed its extended squad of 24 to take on Port Adelaide in Round 1 of the NAB AFLW Season, this Sunday 17 August, headlined by star duo Captain Ange Stannett and Kiara Bowers returning to the side for the first time since 2023.

Stannett has been named in the backline, with the skipper set to captain on-field for the first time in her career, while Bowers, who will also celebrate her 50th AFLW game, has been named amongst the action in the midfield.

Also set to play her 50th AFLW game on Sunday, Gabby Newton will line up alongside Bowers in the midfield.

Senior Coach Lisa Webb spoke to the media on Thursday morning and praised Stannett, Bowers and Newton for their hard work and dedication throughout pre-season.

“(They hold) elite standards and are really great leaders for our group,” Webb said.

“The way they go about it, they’re tenacious, their trademark players and we’re really proud to have (them) in our team.

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Lisa Webb, Gabby Newton and Kiara Bowers | Media Conference

AFLW Senior Coach Lisa Webb and 50 gamers Gabby Newton and Kiara Bowers speak to the media ahead of our Round 1 clash against Port Adelaide this Sunday at Alberton Oval

Earlier in the week, Fremantle confirmed three debutants with two AFLW debuts in Georgie Brisbane and Indi Strom, and a Club debut in Bella Smith.

Both Brisbane and Smith have been named in the forward line, while Strom has been named at full back.

“Georgie works incredibly hard, and she’s got that fierce competitiveness. We’ve got some great defenders, and she’s really put her hand up with the way she’s played on those as well,” Webb said.

“Indi’s been around for a while, but far out, she deserves her shot – she’s been terrific.

“Bella’s been in terrific form, got a great set of hands and one that’s fitted in seamlessly to our list.”

Fremantle’s extended bench of eight includes a potential AFLW debutant in Holly Ifould, Aish McCarthy, Tunisha Kikoak, Amy Mulholland, Gabby Biedenweg-Webster, Sarah Verrier, Phil Seth, and Jo Cregg.

Last year was Fremantle’s first time facing Port Adelaide, as the side came away with an eight-point win in a 5.7 (37) to 4.5 (29) victory in Round 3 at Alberton Oval.

Bouncedown on Sunday is at 3.40pm ACST / 2.10pm WST at Alberton Oval, Adelaide.

The game will be broadcast live on 7mate and Fox Sports, and streamed live on Kayo, Binge and 7plus from 2pm WST.

Fremantle’s final team will be announced at 3pm WST on Friday at fremantlefc.com.au.