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Pearce AFLW comeback gathering momentum

3 minute read

Melbourne captain Daisy Pearce has returned to AFLW with a bang, steering the Demons to consecutive wins.

DAISY PEARCE
DAISY PEARCE Picture: Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/Getty Images

It's as if Daisy Pearce never sat out a full AFLW season.

For the second straight week, the Melbourne captain played a starring role across half-back to steer her side to a win, this time a gritty 20-point victory over the Western Bulldogs.

One of women's football's biggest stars is well and truly back this year, and her teammates are loving it.

"It's great having Daisy back," midfielder Karen Paxman said.

"She's playing the backline this season, but she's a great leader, a great player and just a classic person to have around.

"She's a massive addition back into the side and I love playing alongside her and I have for many years now.

"She did great tonight and hopefully she's happy with her performance."

Pearce racked up 15 disposals against the Bulldogs on Friday night - only Paxman and Shelley Scott (16 each) had more - but it was her clean touch and ability to make the right decisions under pressure that stood out.

The aforementioned trio and fellow veteran Elise O'Dea were all influential against a less experienced Dogs outfit in the Demons' 4.8 (32) to 2.0 (12) win at Whitten Oval.

However, some of Melbourne's next generation also stood up in wet and slippery conditions.

Tyla Hanks and Shelley Heath were particularly impressive in a clear sign of the Dees' growing depth as they chase that elusive AFLW premiership.

"They're hitting their straps and they'll just keep doing so as the years go on," Paxman said.

"They are smaller bodies and as they're already unbelievable players with super talent, but as they get stronger they're going to be incredible.

"Shelley Heath had a ripper (in round one) and they're grouse characters too.

"Not only are they good players, but they'll probably be leaders for the club one day too."

Fellow youngster Casey Sherriff produced the highlight of Friday night's win with a first-ever AFLW goal that she won't forget in a hurry.

Sherriff followed Scott's long kick into a vacant forward line during the third quarter and cleverly poked the ball off the deck from 20m out with an opponent in hot pursuit.

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