Fremantle have made three changes to their starting line-up for the week 5 clash with St Kilda, with three major outs in co-vice-captain Áine Tighe (injured), utility Gabby O’Sullivan (suspended) and defender Jae Flynn (concussion protocols).
Forward Makaela Tuhakaraina will make her first appearance for the season as she headlines the week 5 inclusions alongside defender/forward Phil Seth, and defender Tunisha Kikoak.
Tuhakaraina has been named on the interchange bench, after making five appearances in 2023 and playing 16 games in her career to date.
The small forward brings strength, power and speed into the side with her rugby background, and booted three goals last season.
With 42 games to her name to date, Seth has been named at half-forward, after featuring in the backline for most of her career.
19-year-old Kikoak returns to the side after missing the last two matches with a shoulder injury she sustained during the week 2 clash with the Crows, and has been named in the backline.
Senior Coach Lisa Webb spoke to media on Wednesday morning before the side flew out to Melbourne, and said she has confidence in her side’s depth.
“There’s been quite a few players that have been banging down the door in our match simulations and our scrimmages, so it’s a great opportunity for those girls to step up this week,” Webb said.
“We’re really clear on the girls that come in have a role to play, and I’m really confident they’ll get the work done.”
Hayley Miller will captain the side in the absence of Ange Stannett, who will manage her coaching role from the bench.
Joanne Cregg, Tahleah Mulder and Holly Ifould have been listed as the three emergencies for the match.
Bouncedown is at 2.05pm WST, with the game to be broadcast live on Channel 7 and Fox Footy, as well as being streamed line on Kayo Sports.