2025 draftee Marlo Graham will make her AFLW debut after a strong pre-season, while new recruit Lily-Rose Williamson is set to play her first game in Lions colours.

Sophie Peters will return to AFLW level for the first time since Round 12, 2025 after earning selection in Craig Starcevich's side. Peters has been named on interchange alongside Shannon Campbell, Neasa Dooley, Williamson, Ruby Svarc and Claudia Wright. 

Ally Anderson will miss this weekend's game after sustaining a hamstring strain at Thursday's training. The emergencies are Shanae Davison, Rania Crozier and Evie Long.

Jade Ellenger, Orla O'Dwyer, Courtney Hodder and Shannon Campbell are set to play their 75th game together as teammates. 

The Lions Round 1 game against Essendon begins at 12:35pm. Fans can catch the game live at Windy Hill or on Channel Seven and Kayo.