Essendon’s AFLW forward half could be bolstered by the returns of Sophie Alexander and Daria Bannister from respective injuries this weekend.

The experienced pair will both be tests for Saturday’s away clash against the GIANTS, with Alexander (back) and Bannister (knee soreness) making great progress over the last fortnight.

Georgia Nanscawen suffered a minor fracture in her hand during last week's loss to West Coast but is still expected to play if she gets through main training well.

It’s a similar approach for Steph Cain, who copped a foot injury on Friday and is building her training loads as the week progresses. She’ll also be a test for round eight. 

Zoe Prowse (bone stress) and Emma Dineen (back) will miss the remainder of the 2026 season with their respective injuries - both will be ready for a 2027 pre-season return.