AFLW 2025: West Coast to challenge Jess Rentsch’s rough conduct ban with finals on the line

West Coast will challenge Jess Rentsch’s one-game ban for rough conduct as their season goes on the line against Carlton on Friday night.

Rentsch was cited for a tackle on Swan Montana Ham during the first quarter of the Eagles’ 17-point loss to Sydney on Saturday that saw her head driven forward and hit the turf.

The incident was graded as careless conduct, medium impact and high contact, drawing a suspension for Rentsch.

Rentsch has played a key part in the Eagles’ rise this season, with the Rising Star nominee one of the best tacklers in the team and has displayed versatility with stints through the midfield.

“I really, really like Rentsch, it’s no secret around here. She defends like three people,” coach Daisy Pearce said earlier this season.

“The physicality? Must come from a country Victoria farm. Her want to defend and tackle and do whatever the team needs. What allows her to do it over and over again is the work she’s put into her game.”

Her loss will be a massive blow for the Eagles ahead of what will be their biggest game in AFLW history, knowing a win over Carlton will grant them entry into a maiden AFLW finals campaign, while a loss will likely see them miss out.

The Eagles are already crossing their fingers for All-Australian Ella Roberts, who was a late withdrawal against Sydney with hamstring tightness.

West Coast struggled without her midfield prowess, though Pearce said post-game, Roberts was close to playing, raising hopes it’s not a serious issue.

The AFLW tribunal will sit at 2pm AWST.