Invincible Kangaroos Create Sporting History
The North Melbourne Kangaroos have achieved what no team has accomplished before in Australian rules football history, completing a perfect undefeated season with a commanding 40-point victory over the Brisbane Lions in the AFLW grand final. The emphatic 9.2.56 to 2.4.16 triumph at a sold-out Ikon Park on Saturday night secured their second consecutive premiership and cemented their place as one of the most dominant teams in the sport's history.
Record-Breaking Performance Seals Victory
Ash Riddell, the league's best-and-fairest winner, delivered an extraordinary performance that broke yet another record, amassing 39 disposals - the highest tally ever recorded in a season decider. She was brilliantly supported by fellow midfield star Jasmine Garner, who contributed 28 touches and one goal, while Jenna Bruton kicked three crucial goals, including two in the final term as the Kangaroos extended their lead.
The victory marked North Melbourne's 27th consecutive win in a record-breaking streak that dates back to their loss against Brisbane in the 2023 grand final. Under coach Darren Crocker's leadership, the side has remained unbeaten since that defeat, creating one of the most impressive dynasties in women's Australian rules football.
Grand Final Dominance From Start to Finish
Despite Brisbane's perfect start with Charlotte Mullins kicking the first goal of the game, North Melbourne quickly established control, kicking the next five goals before halftime to build a commanding 22-point lead at the main break. The Lions received a significant setback early in the second term when experienced defender Shannon Campbell gave away twin 50-metre penalties, effectively gifting Kate Shierlaw a goal from the goal square.
The second half continued in similar fashion, with Tahlia Randall kicking North's sixth consecutive major before Ruby Svarc finally ended Brisbane's 40-minute goal drought. However, this provided only brief respite for the outclassed Lions, who struggled to contain North Melbourne's relentless pressure despite strong performances from Belle Dawes (31 disposals), Sophie Conway (22), and Mullins (20).
Historic Milestones and Personal Triumphs
The victory created several historic milestones, most notably making Libby Birch the first four-time AFLW premiership player. Birch has now celebrated triumphs with the Western Bulldogs (2018), Melbourne (2022), and North Melbourne (2024-25). Meanwhile, three Kangaroos - Blaithin Bogue, Eliza Shannon, and Eilish Sheerin - experienced their first premiership success.
The result delivered more heartbreak for Brisbane coach Craig Starcevich and his team, who have now lost five of their seven grand final appearances. The defeat also denied the city of Brisbane a remarkable cross-code grand slam, following the Brisbane Lions' (AFL) and Broncos' (NRL, NRLW) premiership successes during September and October.
North Melbourne's unprecedented achievement sets a new benchmark in Australian rules football, establishing a legacy of excellence that may stand for generations in the AFLW competition.
