2026 NAB AFLW Season - Round 5
Hawthorn v Western Bulldogs
Saturday 12 September, 1:05pm AEST
Kennedy Community Centre, Dingley Village • Bunurong/Boon Wurrung
Broadcast: Fox Sports 507/Kayo
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Game-Day Guide and Details
LAST TIME WE MET
Round 3, 2025
Western Bulldogs 1.4 (10) def. by Hawthorn 2.2 (14)
It was scarves and beanies for fans who braved the freezing weather to watch the low-scoring match, as the Hawks had to grind out the win for the third week in a row.
The Bulldogs dominated the first term in the key stats, winning clearances 12-3 and hitouts 11-6, but were unable to convert that convincingly on the scoreboard. Rylie Wilcox parting the seas to open the scoring was their only goal, with shallow entries hurting their ability to convert.
THE LINE-UPS
WHAT IT MEANS
The Bulldogs have shown plenty of improvement in 2026 with a win-loss record of 3-1 through the first four weeks. Tam Hyett's side has spoken about wanting to become more relevant and it is definitely well on its way to doing that, having dismantled Sydney in round four. Their start to the season has been even more impressive when you factor in that experienced duo Ellie Blackburn and De Berry are currently sidelined with injury.
PLAYER TO WATCH
Emma McDonald is one of the most exciting young key forwards in the competition. She's strong in the air and clean at ground level, which makes her a tough match-up for opposition defenders. McDonald was crucial in the Bulldogs' fourth quarter fightback against the Swans last week, booting three goals. The Hawks have some issues in defence right now and McDonald will be a huge threat.Â
