Overview
- Melbourne beat Hawthorn 9.6 (60) to 6.5 (41) to open the 2026 AFLW season on Thursday night with a 19-point victory.
- Olivia (Liv) Purcell returned from an ACL injury to record a game-high 32 disposals, nine tackles, three clearances and a goal assist.
- New recruit Mia Austin kicked four goals and proved a decisive attacking presence as Melbourne kicked the final three goals to seal the win.
- Debutant ruck Jacinta Hose twisted her ankle in the second quarter and was forced from the game after a long rehabilitation that included two ACL reconstructions and back surgery, leaving a question over Melbourne’s ruck depth while veteran Lauren Pearce remains sidelined.
- Hawthorn showed positives despite the loss as recruit Jacqui Dupuy finished with 16 touches and nine marks, the match drew 2,879 at Ikon Park, and both clubs will use the result as an early form check before their next fixtures.