Sydney Swans have reached the AFLW semi-finals after a commanding 29-point victory over the Western Bulldogs at a wet and windswept Henson Park.
The Swans controlled the contest from the opening bounce, producing three unanswered goals in the first quarter before holding the Bulldogs to 2.5 (17) in a 7.4 (46) to 2.5 (17) win.
Western Bulldogs, who had reached the finals for the first time since 2022, were unable to build scoring momentum as Sydney’s pressure disrupted their attack. Ellie Blackburn registered their only goal before half-time, while Tanya Kennedy played a key role in limiting Isabelle Pritchard’s influence.
Heavy rain made conditions increasingly difficult, with supporters lining the boundary in soaked ponchos and umbrellas as the Swans saw out the result. The home side gathered on the field at the final siren to celebrate booking its place in the next round.
Sydney coach Colin O’Riordan praised his players’ discipline throughout the match and said they remained focused on the way they wanted to play.
“Scoreboard is important at the end of the game, but you don’t get there unless you stick to the process and you stick to what we are trying to do,” O’Riordan said.
“The level of pressure they brought across all four quarters, that was outstanding.”
The Swans will face Geelong in the semi-final after the Cats fell agonisingly short against Melbourne in Saturday’s qualifying final.
