Sydney suspends Morphett and Hamilton ahead of Sydney Derby

Sydney coach Colin O'Riordan confirmed star ruck Ally Morphett will miss Sunday's Sydney Derby after accepting a one-match suspension for a strike against Western Bulldogs defender Elisabeth Georgostathis. Teammate Lexi Hamilton also received a one-match ban for a separate striking incident involving Heidi Woodley during the club's 27-point loss on Saturday. O'Riordan noted that updated AFLW Tribunal rules regarding intentional strikes necessitated the penalty. The club is now awaiting medical assessments for captain Lucy McEvoy and recruit Taylor Smith, who are both listed as fitness tests ahead of the weekend. If cleared, their return would provide necessary reinforcements as the coaching staff considers restructuring the lineup, potentially moving first-year tall Maddie Quinn into the primary ruck role. Final team selections are expected following the second training session on Friday.

• 2:38 AMAFL — Morphett 'disappointed' for teammates, Swans sweat on key duo ahead of Derby