WAFLW: Depth playing a role in Lions resurgence

Subiaco’s WAFLW side is priming for a deep run in season 2023, following strong form in recent weeks. The Lions are third on the ladder with five wins, with four of those coming from the past five games.

The side was forced to test its depth, due to the AFLW players being unavailable, as well as WA state representatives. Coach Michael Farmer said round seven’s win over Peel Thunder last month was a shift in mindset.

“The win against Peel I think was huge in terms of our belief around how good our depth was, and what we had to work with,” he said.

“We were really happy with that.”

Following the bye in round five, the side defeated East Perth and Peel in back to back games. However, the side wasn’t able to back it up against West Perth at home. Not to be deterred, the side rebounded against the Royals, before a thrilling win over East Fremantle over the weekend.

Farmer said it was a good response to losing to the Falcons three weeks ago.

“When we dropped to West Perth, we really missed an opportunity to consolidate our spot in the four,” he said.

“In terms of a highlight so far, the win against East Freo on the weekend was right up there.

“Clear in third spot is right where we see ourselves, and knowing we can challenge the top two later in the year.”

In his third year at the helm, the side has had its best start since Farmer took over. After starting 2-6 in back-to-back years, he said a strong preseason helped take the team to another level.

“Our preseason prepared us so much better for the start,” Farmer said.

“We were a lot more competitive going into the season and more in tune with our game plan and connection.”

Farmer also credited the new found depth of his squad to improved success on field.

“Fina Dethlefsen, Agnes Monisse, Meg McCaullay, girls that weren’t playing earlier in the season got their opportunity and were able to impact,” he said.

“Meadhbh Moloney and Bree Wills as well, girls that were probably considered depth players are now entrenched in our 21.

“We’ve been able to bat deeper and have a lot more trust in the players coming through to play their role, and they’ve been sensational.”

One who has stepped up to the demands of WAFLW football is Grace Hahnel. Recruited from West Coast in the Perth Football League, Farmer said she’s exceeded all expectations.

“She’s one of the bravest, toughest players I’ve seen,” he said.

“She’s become a heart and soul player in terms of her workrate, and how hard she’s willing to go.”

Meanwhile, Subiaco had eight players selected between the WAFLW and Rogers Cup squads to represent WA in the state 16s and state 18s competitions. Farmer said it’s a credit to the girls involved, and a credit to the club for helping them along the way.

He praised the efforts of Olivia Crane and Olivia Wolmarans in particular, for their selection in the under 16s All-Australian team.

“Craney genuinely plays like a 200-game veteran, and her versatility is incredible,” Farmer said.

“Knowing that she can go across half back, on a wing, or up forward as a 15-year-old is insane.

“Liv Wolmarans is an absolute talent, but the education around her transition from Rogers to League level has taken a bit of time.

“She’s been able to focus on that, and what we’ve been able to see is her impact two games of footy in the last two weeks, so we’re really happy with where she’s at.”

With all the state players returning from their WA duties, the side is in a position where they can build consistency in their game heading into the pointy end of the season. Up against Swan Districts this weekend, who are fourth and have five wins in a row, Farmer said it’s an important game towards shaping their season.

“Anything can happen between positions three and five on the ladder, depending on a win or a loss,” he said.

“Every win is important, but there’s a lot at stake this week.

“We’re embracing the challenge and embracing the game.”