The Western Bulldogs will host Melbourne at VU Whitten Oval on Saturday 8 January to kick off their 2022 AFLW season.

The first bounce will be at 7pm, with the game to be broadcast live on Channel 7.

The AFL tonight confirmed the match-up, with the remaining rounds to be announced tomorrow.

The two Clubs – which first faced off in the exhibition games between 2013 and 2016 – will also vie for the Hampson-Hardeman Cup, named in honour of women’s football pioneers Barb Hampson and Lisa Hardeman.

The Bulldogs are currently in possession of the Cup, having recorded a 13-point win over the Dees in round four earlier this year.

Memberships for the 2022 AFLW season are on sale now. Visit the website or call 1300 GO DOGS to sign up today.

AFLW – Round One

Western Bulldogs v Melbourne

Saturday 8 January, 7pm

VU Whitten Oval

Channel 7