AFLW senior coach Scott Gowans has locked in his team to take on North Melbourne in Round 7. Three changes have been made ahead of the clash, including the return of Montana Ham.
Speaking to Sydney Swans Media, Gowans says she will be important in several areas on North Hobart Oval.
“She brings effort and intensity and she's able to spread from the contest and something that particularly on North Hobart Oval is really important to gain territory,” Gowans shared.
“Mon will bring a little bit around the stoppages and then we can also put her up forward.”
Ham is joined by experience midfielder Hayley Bullas and lightning quick forward Montana Beruldsen. They are expected to replace Laura Gardiner who has been ruled out for an “extended” period due to a hand injury.
“We've got a midfield contingent that's done really well, and Laura was a part of that as well. But she was only sort of one piece of the four or five that went through there. So, I expect them still to be able to contest,” he said.
“Montana Ham coming back in will replace Laura in that position and we can go from there. But I've been proud of the girls and the way that they've connected and got the ball going our way more often than not over the last three weeks.”
The team come up against the ladder leaders on Sunday afternoon after two close losses against Essendon and Geelong. According to the senior coach, the team are embracing the challenge.
“They're the benchmark of the competition. And I think everyone watches their games and marvels at the way they move the footy,” Gowans added.
"Our plan is to take them on full steam ahead. We play a good uncontested game and can shift the ball as well. So, it's really important that when we get the ball, we can shift it, maintain possession and then try and get some territory.”
First bounce is from 1:05pm AEDT. Round 7 will be available to watch on 7mate. Fox Footy and Kayo.