Sydney's hopes of securing a historic AFLW top-four berth have suffered a hammering as star ruck Ally Morphett picked up a knee injury in their 55-point thumping by North Melbourne.
But while the 10.11 (71) to 2.4 (16) victory returned the Kangaroos (7-1) to the top of the ladder, the reigning premiers have injury concerns of their own as 100-gamer Emma Kearney sustained a hamstring issue.
In the first quarter at Arden Street Oval on Sunday, Morphett looked to make a tackle but collapsed in the lead-up.
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She was left holding her right knee in agony, later emerging wearing a brace, and on crutches, and will go for scans.
The 22-year-old has played a starring role for the Bloods this season, spearheading them into top-four contention, while also being the highest-placed Swan on the AFL Coaches Association AFLW champion player of the year leaderboard (35 votes).
Kearney, an eight-time All Australian, left the field in the fourth quarter, just two months after missing the Australia-Ireland clash with a hamstring injury.
The loss of the 37-year-old defender would be massive, considering she adds a plethora of experience to North, who are in a tight race for the minor premiership.
"Disappointing way to finish the game. I've been pretty lucky throughout my career not to have too many injuries," Kearney told the Seven Network.
"Probably my age has something to do with it. Hopefully it's not too bad, but we'll get it scanned."
The Roos' Tess Craven (17 disposals, two goals), Tahlia Randall (three goals) and Jasmine Garner (31 disposals, 10 clearances) dazzled as Sydney were held goalless until midway through the third term.
By that point, the home team had already booted four goals and kicked another six afterwards to demote the Swans (6-2) to seventh position.
At Victoria Park, Melbourne overcame the loss of their captain Kate Hore to secure a 6.6 (42) to 2.9 (21) win over a wasteful Collingwood.
Fresh off a 31-point defeat by North last round, the Demons rebounded as forward Mia Austin slotted three first-half majors to help the visitors lead 29-10 at the main break.
From there, midfielders Tyla Hanks (24 disposals, 12 tackles, one goal) and Olivia Purcell (32 disposals) sparkled as Melbourne secured victory despite Hore missing the clash with a neck injury.
The win moves the Dees (7-1) into second position, while the Magpies (1-7) will hope defender Sarah Rowe quickly recovers from a leg niggle sustained in the second half.
