Western Bulldogs midfielder-turned-forward Gabby Newton wasn’t sure how her emotions would play out on Sunday against the Giants.
The 20-year-old returned to the action in yesterday’s seven-point win at IKON Park, registering 12 disposals and nine tackles to go with two goals – the firsts of her AFLW career.
“It felt so good to be back out there - I wasn’t sure whether to cry or just get really pumped, but it just felt amazing to be playing footy again,” she told westernbulldogs.com.au post-match.
“I’m so immensely proud. I think it just shows that we can really rely on our game style, plus all the things that we’ve been practicing at training.
“It shows that it’s going to win us games. It was just great to hold on at the end.”
Head coach Nathan Burke echoed a similar sentiment in his post-match press conference, impressed by Newton’s efforts in her first game back.
“Gabby was coming off two shoulder reconstructions, and didn’t play at all last year. She still didn’t really join in a full preseason training until at least two-thirds of the way through, so the nerves for her were just immense,” he said.
“Coming out here, she’s playing against some really good defenders as well. For her to do what she did, I think there’s just a huge sigh of relief from her.
“When she goes out next week without the burden of it being her first game back – I think there’s some great things ahead.
“I’m not fussed about our forward line – I have full faith.”
The Bulldogs will look to make it two from two when they meet newcomers Port Adelaide at Alberton Oval on Saturday.
