North Melbourne defeat Western Bulldogs in thrilling VFLW decider

North Melbourne has claimed a thrilling VFLW grand final after a starring performance from a forward prospect who must be on the radar of AFLW clubs. Here’s how it played out.

The Roos celebrate their premiership. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos)

North Melbourne has claimed its first VFLW premiership with a thrilling win over the Western Bulldogs.

The Roos burst out of the blocks and led by as many as 32 points before the Dogs clawed their way back to level the scores in the third.

North used the North Port Oval breeze to their advantage in the last to kick away to a 10.8 (68) to 7.6 (48) win.

Audrey Rhodes kicked the sealer with just seconds remaining to cap a sensational display in the middle.

In the post-game presentation, North coach Brett Gourley credited his side for their turn around mid-season after eight rounds.

He said his side’s “resilience” was pivotal in helping them lift the premiership.

DAJOK THE STAR

Nyakoat Dojak didn’t need many touches to have her presence felt on her way to the best on ground medal. She kicked three goals in the first half and you could have forgiven the Dogs defenders for panicking when the ball went in her direction. She could take a contested grab but when it hit the deck her quick hands and athleticism made it feel like anything could happen. She finished with four goals. It was a sensational performance and she must be right in AFLW contention.

The Kangaroos celebrate as Nyakoat Dojiok is named best on ground. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos)

FAST START THE KEY

North kicked into a slight breeze in the first quarter but it mattered little as they kicked four goals to zero. The Dogs struggled to cope with North’s surging ball movement and the forwards just had too much room to work. Audrey Rhodes led the midfield for the Roos with a game-high 27 disposals as Alana Barba (17) and Maddi Di Cosmo (20) grew into the game when it mattered most. Again in the last quarter, the Roos showed why the breeze was going to have some sort of advantage.

NO TIME ON FACTOR

There is no time on in the VFLW competition with 20-minute flat quarters. Members of the crowd were frustrated when umpires waited to restart the game in the centre after a goal as they waited for the Channel 7 broadcast to return.