A late change to Fremantle’s AFLW line-up has made way for the dream debut of exciting young defender Emma O’Driscoll in this Sunday’s clash with St Kilda at RSEA Park.
Freo’s first travel trip of the 2020 season will be highlighted by the 19-year-old debutant, who comes into the side to replace defender Evie Gooch, who will miss the clash with a minor quad strain.
Drafted to Freo in October of last year, O’Driscoll couldn’t contain her excitement after the good news was broken to her by AFLW senior coach Trent Cooper.
“I cannot believe this! I can’t wait to play,” O’Driscoll said.
“I’m feeling so confident with the girls that I’m around.
“I’m obviously a bit nervous and that’s normal, but the way that we’ve been playing as a team, I’m not stressed at all.”
Cooper said the 19-year-old Northam product had earned her stripes on the training track and is eager to see how she will perform this weekend.
“Emma has been in great form and is ready to go,” Cooper said.
“It’s only been because of how well our backline has been playing that has kept her out.
“We’re really excited to bring her into the side, she’s got a lot of pace and attacks the ball really hard.
“I think she will be a fan favourite in time and a long-term player for this club, so it’s great to give her an opportunity this week.”
Fremantle remain undefeated after a promising start to the season, with wins over Geelong, West Coast and Collingwood in the opening three rounds.
Bounce down for the Saints clash is at 3.10pm (12.10pm WST) and it will be broadcast live into WA from 12pm on Foxtel, Channel 7 and the AFL Women’s app.
UPDATED TEAM v ST KILDA
Backs: Janelle Cuthbertson, Leah Mascall
Half-backs: Ange Stannett, Philipa Seth, Laura Pugh
Centre: Katie-Jayne Grieve, Hayley Miller, Bianca Webb
Half-forwards: Ebony Antonio, Roxanne Roux, Ashley Sharp
Forwards: Gemma Houghton, Sabreena Duffy
Rucks/ followers: Mim Strom, Kiara Bowers, Kara Antonio
Interchange: Kate Flood, Jasmin Stewart, Lindal Rohde, Gabby O’Sullivan, Emma O’Driscoll
Emergencies: Mia-Rae Clifford
