MELBOURNE has named two inclusions for its Week 5 team to face Essendon on Friday.

After making the move from Port Adelaide during last year’s sign and trade period, Lily Johnson has had to wait for her chance to pull on the red and blue.

After injury disrupted her pre-season, the No.33 worked her way back to full fitness with the goal of AFLW footy in her sights, Friday’s first Melbourne game her reward for effort in 2024.

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Veteran Demon Paxy Paxman also joins Johnson in the final team, returning to the line-up after a week sidelined with a minor foot injury.

It was confirmed earlier this week that Eden Zanker (knee) and Blaithin Mackin (calf) would both miss the game due to injury.  

Melbourne has named top-up players Sarah D’arcy and Sophie Casey from Casey Demons VFLW side as emergencies for this week’s game, alongside player Delany Madigan.

The Dees have only faced the Bombers once in the home and away season, with their last clash resulting in a 41-point win for Melbourne during season seven.

Grab tickets to the game at Windy Hill HERE.

Melbourne v GWS GIANTS

Week 6

IKON Park, Melbourne • VIC