Kangaroos captain Kearney nears AFLW return for finals

The veteran defender is now just a fitness test away ahead of their Friday night final against the Crows at Ikon Park and the only injury concern for the Kangaroos.

"Emma is ticking off a lot of boxes in her hamstring rehab," senior physiotherapist Billy Williams said.

"We'll look to make more firm decisions around her selection for Friday night as the week progresses."

Kearns will need to prove her fitness if she's to return to the line-up for Friday's qualifying final 📋— North Melbourne Women's (@NMFCWomens) #JustYouWaitAndSeeNovember 5, 2024

Midfielder-forward Jenna Bruton was rested for their final home-and-away match against Gold Coast and is expected to return to the side for Friday.

Port Adelaide also have good news with star midfield duo Matilda Scholz and Abbey Dowrick set to feature in their elimination final against Richmond after both were a late withdrawal in round 10 with soreness.

Elsewhere, All-Australian winger Sophie Conway has been cleared of a serious injury after leaving the field with a shoulder complaint in Brisbane's win over St Kilda.

Conway had left the game out of precaution following a tackle in the final quarter.