Sport
4 December, 2023
Bruton’s premiership dream crushed by injury and Lions
Former Trentham local Jenna Bruton endured a brutal end to a fairytale season in Sunday’s AFLW grand final when her Achilles gave way in North Melbourne’s 17-point loss to Brisbane. Bruton came into the game in terrific form, having led...
Former Trentham local Jenna Bruton endured a brutal end to a fairytale season in Sunday’s AFLW grand final when her Achilles gave way in North Melbourne’s 17-point loss to Brisbane.
Bruton came into the game in terrific form, having led all-comers with 28 disposals in North’s thrilling preliminary final win over Adelaide, playing a crucial role in a breakthrough season which saw the Kangaroos reach their first ever AFLW grand final.
However, Bruton’s first involvement in the showpiece game ended in disaster. After intercepting a Brisbane possession, Bruton landed awkwardly and collapsed without contact, before grabbing for her Achilles.
She was unable to put any weight on her foot as she was carried off, such was the severity of her injury, and was forced to watch the remainder of the game from the sidelines.
It is suspected that she will likely miss 12 months, putting her in doubt for the 2024 AFLW season.
Bruton’s unlucky day was compounded when the Kangaroos were unable to hold on to a final-quarter lead.
Leading by seven points at the final change, the Kangaroos were held scoreless, while Brisbane kicked four goals to eventually take the premiership.