The Sydney Swans have lost star ruck Ally Morphett to a knee injury in their humiliating 55-point defeat to North Melbourne.
But while the 10.11 (71) to 2.4 (16) victory returned the Kangaroos to the top of the ladder, the reigning premiers have injury concerns of their own, as Emma Kearney sustained a hamstring injury.
In the first quarter at Arden Street Oval on Sunday, Morphett looked to make a tackle but collapsed in the lead-up.
She was left holding her right knee in agony, later emerging from the rooms wearing a brace and on crutches.
The 22-year-old has played a starring role for the Swans this season, spearheading them into top-four contention.
Kearney, an eight-time All Australian, left the field in the fourth quarter, just two months after missing the Australia-Ireland clash with a hamstring injury.
The loss of the 37-year-old defender would be massive, considering she adds a plethora of experience to the Kangaroos, who are in a tight race for the minor premiership.
“Disappointing way to finish the game. I’ve been pretty lucky throughout my career not to have too many injuries,” Kearney told the Seven Network.
“Probably my age has something to do with it. Hopefully it’s not too bad, but we’ll get it scanned.”
The Kangaroos’ Tess Craven (17 disposals, two goals), Tahlia Randall (three goals) and Jasmine Garner (31 disposals, 10 clearances) dazzled, as the Swans were held goalless until midway through the third term.
By that point, the home team had already booted four goals and kicked another six afterwards to demote the Swans to seventh position.
Mia Austin (right) kicked three goals in the Demons’ triumph. (Getty Images: Morgan Hancock)
At Victoria Park, Melbourne secured a 6.6 (42) to 2.9 (21) win over a wasteful Collingwood, despite the absence of injured captain Kate Hore.
Fresh off a 31-point defeat to the Kangaroos last round, the Demons rebounded with forward Mia Austin slotted three first-half majors to help the visitors lead 29-10 at the main break.
From this point of the match, midfielders Tyla Hanks (24 disposals, 12 tackle and one goal) and Olivia Purcell (32 disposals) sparkled.
The win moves the Demons into second position, while the Magpies will hope defender Sarah Rowe quickly recovers from a leg injury sustained in the second half.
Meanwhile, the West Coast Eagles thrust themselves firmly into finals contention by beating Fremantle 5.9 (39) to 4.3 (27) in Perth.
Midfielder Ella Roberts (22 disposals, one goal) produced a masterclass to help the Eagles claim their first regular-season win over their cross-town rivals and move level on points with the eighth-placed Dockers.
The Eagles’ fourth straight win comes after they lost their first four matches.
AAP
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