The AFL has today announced the MCG will host its first-ever AFLW match, a Preliminary Final between Melbourne and the Brisbane Lions on Saturday April 2.
The first-ever AFLW match to be played at the spiritual home of Australian sport will take place at 12.40pm AEDT on the Saturday, with Melbourne hosting the Lions.
Entry to the MCG 2022 AFLW Preliminary Final will be free entry for all patrons.
AFL General Manager Women’s Football Nicole Livingstone said she looked forward to the result of this weekend’s Qualifying Final before the attention of footy fans turned to the Preliminary Finals.
“We cannot wait for the history-making Preliminary Final match at the MCG – the first time AFLW players get to play at the venue, and equally, a special occasion for supporters who will witness a NAB AFLW match at the ‘G’ for the first time in the competition’s six-year history,” she said.
Melbourne Cricket Club, ground managers of the MCG, Chief Executive Stuart Fox expressed his excitement in the first-ever AFLW match being held at the venue.
“Every footy player dreams of playing on the MCG, and we’re so thrilled that the time has finally come for AFLW players to take to the hallowed turf and showcase their exceptional talents,” Mr Fox said.
“I encourage all MCC members and footy fans to get along and be part of this historic moment for both the MCG and AFLW.”
Melbourne CEO Gary Pert said the announcement was significant, for both the club and the competition.
“The MCG is a ground rich in history, and the opportunity our women’s team now has to play a Preliminary Final there is really exciting,” Mr Pert said.
“Being pioneers of the AFL Women’s competition, it’s quite fitting that we will be part of this historic occasion, creating and adding to the memories at the home of football.
Melbourne will meet either Brisbane or Collingwood for the final-four clash, with its opposition to be confirmed this Sunday.
Melbourne captain Daisy Pearce and key forward Tayla Harris will be among the only few to have played at the venue, being part of two Exhibition Series matches at the MCG (2013 and 2015).
The match will commence at 12.40pm, with ticketing details to be confirmed over the coming days.
Banner image: An Exhibition Series match at the MCG in 2015. Credit Darrian Traynor/ Getty Images