A magnificent performance from Geelong midfielder Amy McDonald headlines the Round 5 AFLW MVP of the Week nominations, proudly supported by Snaffle.  

Brisbane midfielder Emily Bates and Melbourne Ruck Lauren Pearce earned themselves the other nominations for the weekly award, for their standout efforts over the weekend. 

Geelong midfielder McDonald played a key role in her side’s maiden win of the 2022 AFLW season. 

The reigning best and fairest winner garnered a team-high 24 disposals, 12 clearances and seven tackles in a thrilling three-point victory over the luckless, and still winless, Eagles. 

The 24-year-old’s silky skills and ball-winning capabilities set the tone for the match and helped her side hang on for victory. 

The 4.3 (27) to 3.6 (24) triumph marks the first time since Round 1, 2019 that the Cats have celebrated a win at their home ground, as well as new coach Daniel Lowther’s first win in the head role. 

Brisbane midfielder Emily Bates brought her usual professionalism to Saturday’s match against Collingwood, in which her side triumphed 5.5 (35) to 1.5 (11). 

The inaugural Lion and vice-captain continued her fine form picking up 23 disposals and laying five tackles. 

The 25-year-old made her presence felt and cemented the Lions’ 24-point win by delivering a crucial goal in the third term. 

After a standout 2021 season, Melbourne ruck Lauren Pearce became the first player in AFLW history to register 20+ hit-outs and 20+ disposals in a match. 

The 28-year-old has continued to be a key weapon for the Demons this season, with her ruck craft and ability at ground level. 

Pearce made the magic happen again on Saturday night against an in-form Gold Coast outfit, collecting 20 disposals and 20 hit-outs in her side’s 5.8 (38) to 4.2 (26) victory.