AFLW season to remain at seven rounds plus Grand Final despite push for semi-final

DESPITE a push for an extra round in the AFLW season next year, the AFL has decided the competition will remain at seven rounds plus a grand final as played in the inaugural season.

The AFL will keep the same fixture format, including just a Grand Final for AFLW in 2018. Picture: Getty

THE AFLW season won’t be extended in 2018 and will remain at seven rounds plus a grand final.

Feedback after a brilliant first season suggested a semi-final would enhance the competition, but the league was unable to find space in its calendar for an extra round.

AFLW FIXTURE: MORE PRIME TIME FOR AFLW

TOP PICKS: DOGS’ DRAFT HUNT COMES UP TRUMPS

BRAZILL MAGIC: A MAGPIE IN NETBALL AND FOOTBALL

NO GO: HANNAH MOUNCY DECISION ‘HYPOCRITICAL, CYNICAL’

The AFL was reluctant to start the season a week earlier on the last weekend of January because of a clash with the Australian Open and it ruled out extending it into Round 2 of the men’s competition because Easter falls in that period.

The AFL will keep the same fixture format, including just a Grand Final for AFLW in 2018. Picture: Getty

The AFLW fixture will be released on Friday with Carlton and Collingwood to open the season on Friday night February 2 at Ikon Park.

The Grand Final will be played on Saturday March 24 during Round 1 of the AFL season with a time and venue to be advised depending on which team finishes on top of the ladder.