As the 2024 AFLW season concludes, here’s a detailed review of each game and an overall assessment of St Kilda’s performance.

Round 1:

The season began with an impressive 74–20 win over the Gold Coast Suns, showcasing a dominant four-quarter performance. Jesse Wardlaw was electric, kicking 2.1 from 17 disposals, including the first goal of the season with a brilliant ruck-to-snap effort. Tyanna Smith laid 10 tackles and kicked a late goal, while Molly McDonald’s precise wing play (19 disposals at 84% efficiency) was a standout. The Saints ended the round 2nd on the ladder.

Round 2:

In rainy conditions at Moorabbin, St Kilda defeated Sydney 42–26, leading from start to finish. Jesse Wardlaw sealed the win with a goal from inside the center square. Jaimee Lambert (21 disposals, 5 clearances) and Tyanna Smith (20 disposals, a goal) starred, with Molly McDonald continuing her great form. The Saints remained 2nd on the ladder.

Round 3:

At Windy Hill, the Saints overcame Essendon in a tense, low-scoring game, 23–15. Darcy Guttridge’s two goals—including the go-ahead major—were pivotal. Serene Watson was rock-solid in defense with 22 disposals and eight marks, while the midfield brigade combined for an incredible 43 tackles. St Kilda topped the ladder as one of three undefeated teams.

Round 4:

The Saints faced their toughest challenge yet against Hawthorn, suffering a 74–17 defeat. Jesse Wardlaw kicked both St Kilda goals, while Jaimee Lambert worked tirelessly with 22 disposals, 7 tackles, and 5 clearances. Despite the loss, Emmelie Fiedler impressed in her second game, battling against experienced opposition. The result dropped the Saints to 7th.

Round 5:

Captain Hannah Priest celebrated her 50th game in a closely fought match against Fremantle, losing 25–14 after late errors. Jaimee Lambert starred again with 22 disposals and 10 tackles, while Priest marked her milestone with 21 disposals and 9 marks. Serene Watson was a force in defense with 22 disposals. The Saints slipped to 8th on the ladder.

Round 6:

Against the formidable Adelaide Crows, the Saints narrowly lost 26–22. Tyanna Smith had 22 disposals, 13 tackles, and 10 clearances in a heroic effort, supported by Grace Kelly (21 disposals) and Serene Watson (11 intercept possessions). Despite the loss, St Kilda showed heart, dropping to 10th on the ladder.

Round 7a:

In a midweek clash against GWS, the Saints dominated 49–15. Jesse Wardlaw kicked three goals, including one of the season’s best. Jaimee Lambert was unstoppable with 27 disposals, 11 tackles, and 8 clearances, while Charlotte Simpson laid 12 tackles in a hard-fought team win.

Round 7b:

Facing Melbourne later in the week, the Saints lost 44–30. Jesse Wardlaw kicked three of St Kilda’s five goals, and Serene Watson impressed with 19 disposals and six marks in her 50th AFLW game. The Saints ended the round 8th after splitting their double-game week.

Round 8:

Injuries hit hard as star midfielder Georgia Patrikios and experienced defender Steph Chiocci were ruled out for the season, with Nicola Xenos also sidelined. Against Port Adelaide, the Saints couldn’t overcome the Power’s fast start, losing 47–32. Tyanna Smith kicked two goals and laid 10 tackles, while Jaimee Lambert (17 disposals) continued her consistent season. The loss pushed St Kilda out of the top 8.

Round 9:

A must-win clash against the Bulldogs ended in heartbreak, with St Kilda losing 36–35 in Ballarat. Nat Exon returned from injury with two goals, while Serene Watson (21 disposals) and Jesse Wardlaw (18 disposals) contributed strongly. T Smith’s late shot missed, ending the Saints’ finals hopes.

Round 10:

In their final game, the Saints fell 68–41 to Brisbane at RSEA Park. Jesse Wardlaw shone against her old side with two goals and 19 disposals, while Jaimee Lambert capped her season with 22 disposals and 12 tackles. The Saints finished 11th, two and a half games outside the top 8.

Season Summary

What Went Well:
Despite their final ladder position, there were positives:

• Young players like Tyanna Smith, Liv Vesely, and Charlotte Simpson impressed.
• Serene Watson established herself as an elite defender, while Jesse Wardlaw delivered a much-improved season.
• Tackle pressure was a team highlight, with multiple players consistently exceeding seven tackles per game.
• The Saints proved competitive against top sides, showing potential for future growth.

Challenges:

• Injuries marred the season, with stars like Georgia Patrikios, Nicola Xenos, and Steph Chiocci missing significant time.
• Forward-line connection was inconsistent, particularly when Jesse Wardlaw pushed up the ground.
• Outside polish and midfield depth remain areas to address.

Top 5 BNF Predictions:

1. Jaimee Lambert
2. Serene Watson
3. Jesse Wardlaw
4. Tyanna Smith
5. Molly McDonald

Overall:
The season began brightly but ended with challenges. However, the Saints are building something special. With promising young talent and clear improvement, fans should get down to RSEA Park in 2025 to support this exciting team.