This season is the first each side, which came in as an expansion side last year, had a full pre-season leading into the season.

While Bombers coach Natalie Wood said this helps build connection with players, it also means the battle with Hawthorn will not only feature heat this time, but also more of each’s brand of footy going head-to-head.

“Both teams really stepped up to that mark [last year],” said Wood.

“For two teams playing their first game, I thought it was a game of a lot of high skill, high intensity work ... They really stepped straight into that, that mode of wanting to have an arch rival.”

The season is to start without a new signed collective bargaining agreement. Players and the players’ association wanting a longer season, building to each team playing each other once, continues to be a sticky point in negotiations.

Goddard said while she appreciates the AFL and the union are working hard to get that deal done, she will approach the current season as a “mini World Cup”.

“You drop the first couple, then you’re going to be out. So, we certainly prepare and approach it almost like it’s sort of a longer final series,” said Goddard.

Hawthorn host Essendon in round one of the AFLW 2023 season at Kinetic Stadium on Saturday, September 2 at 7.15pm.

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