Injuries as Roos go top

By the Editorial Team · Monday, October 5, 2026

North Melbourne secured a 55-point win over Sydney to regain the top spot on the AFLW ladder, despite significant injuries to veteran Emma Kearney and Sydney’s key ruck Ally Morphett. The victory extends North Melbourne’s unbeaten streak at Arden Street, but both teams must now manage their injury concerns as the season progresses.

North Melbourne has reclaimed the top position on the AFLW ladder following a commanding 55-point victory over Sydney, though both teams faced significant injury challenges during the match on Saturday at Arden Street Oval.

The milestone game for former Roos captain Emma Kearney, who was playing her 100th match, was marred by a hamstring injury. The 37-year-old sustained the injury early in the final quarter while pushing the ball in North Melbourne’s defensive half. After an unsuccessful attempt to continue, Kearney was forced off the field. Reflecting on the injury, she described it as a disappointing way to end what has been a mostly injury-free career.

Sydney's star ruck, Ally Morphett, suffered a serious knee injury within the opening minutes of the game. After attempting to lay a tackle, Morphett grabbed her knee and was immediately assisted from the field. She was later seen wearing a full knee brace during halftime, visibly upset by the injury.

On the field, North Melbourne extended its unbeaten streak at Arden Street, which has lasted since round 7 of the 2022 season. Tahlia Randall was a standout for the Roos, delivering a series of impressive goals. Her scoring included a precise drop punt from the forward pocket in the second term, a quick snap under pressure in the final term, and a successful set shot from the opposite pocket.

Despite Sydney maintaining territorial advantage for large portions of the third quarter, they managed only one goal, which was awarded after a 50-meter penalty. North Melbourne capitalized with three goals in the same period. Defensive efforts were led by Libby Birch, who recorded a career-best number of intercept possessions, including five intercept marks during the term. Roos coach Darren Crocker specifically praised Birch’s performance alongside the collective defensive effort.

With Sydney deploying a tag on Ash Riddell, Jas Garner took on a greater role and responded with a game-high 31 disposals and 10 clearances. Riddell herself still managed to achieve 29 disposals despite the attention.

The win solidifies North Melbourne’s lead on the AFLW ladder, although both clubs now face the challenge of addressing their injury setbacks as the season continues.

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