Bombers beat Collingwood in Natalie Wood's final game as coach
Essendon defeated Collingwood 38-31 in AFLW on Sunday, with the win marking outgoing coach Natalie Wood's last game.
The Bombers dominated most of the match at Windy Hill despite some inaccuracy in front of goal. Collingwood struggled to convert attacking moves into goals, undone by skill errors and ill-discipline.
Essendon's Ash Centra, the 2024 number-one draft pick, controlled the game with 25 disposals and seven clearances. Maddy Prespakis was immense through the middle with 34 disposals.
Captain Bonnie Toogood kicked a crucial goal in the third quarter despite heavy quad strapping. Irish debutant Ellie Brady and draft pick Imogen Trengove managed goals for Collingwood.
- 38-31
- Final score
- Windy Hill
- Venue
- 25
- Centra disposals
- 34
- Prespakis disposals
Why it mattersA strong finish gives Essendon closure after a tough year and provides momentum for rebuilding under new leadership.
AustraliaBoth Melbourne clubs now enter an off-season of significant change as they search for new coaches and reshape their squads.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
