Injury chaos in match sim as Dogs Tigers recruits suffer torn ACLs.

 

The seasons of two highly anticipated AFLW recruits have ended prematurely, as Western Bulldogs defender Mua Laloifi and Richmond ruck Montana McKinnon both suffered ruptured left ACLs during a practice match between the teams.

Laloifi, 31, had previously torn her ACL in 2018 in her other knee before joining the AFLW. After not receiving a contract offer from Carlton for this season, she was traded to the Bulldogs.

Patrice Berthold, the general manager of women’s football, expressed the club’s deep disappointment: “We’re all devastated for Mua. It’s incredibly unfortunate for it to happen in a match simulation just before the season starts.”

Berthold noted that Laloifi had worked exceptionally hard during the preseason and was expected to make a significant impact. “We’re heartbroken for her and will offer our full support as she begins her recovery.”

This injury is a major setback for the rebuilding Bulldogs, as Laloifi was anticipated to bring valuable experience and stability to a very young team.

For Richmond, McKinnon’s ACL tear represents the 10th knee reconstruction at the club this year, spanning across their AFL (five), VFL (three), and AFLW (two) programs.

The 23-year-old, who joined from Adelaide during the trade season, was expected to take on a significant ruck role alongside Poppy Kelly, with Gab Seymour shifting to defense.

Richmond head of football Kate Sheahan commented, “Montana has had a fantastic start since moving to Victoria and has impressed everyone with her natural talent, athleticism, and dedication.” She added, “It’s very disappointing for both Montana and us to see her first season cut short this way, but we’re confident she’ll recover and come back stronger.

Sheahan assured that the team will fully support Montana, saying, “We’ll rally around her and provide all the support she needs to make an even stronger comeback in 2025.

Both clubs have until 5 p.m. AEST on Tuesday, August 27, to find replacements for their injured players.

Additionally, Hawthorn’s Sophie Locke seemed to have sustained a lower leg injury during the Hawks’ match simulation victory against Essendon, but the club has not yet provided details on the severity of the injury.