More than 5000 spectators expected at Essendon-Geelong AFLW game in Warrnambool

AFLW clubs Essendon and Geelong will go head-to-head in Warrnambool on Sunday, October 9.

More than 2000 tickets have been sold with a surge expected in the days leading up to the game.

Essendon, which is hosting the match, will run an open training session on Saturday, October 8 at Reid Oval from 3.45pm.

Players will take part in an autograph session once they've finished training.

The Bombers will also run school clinics on the Monday.

Both clubs have south-west connections.

Warrnambool-raised Natalie Wood coaches the Bombers while Geelong ruck Olivia Fuller played Big V basketball for Warrnambool Mermaids this year and emerging utility Georgia Clarke hails from Branxholme.

Essendon duo Sophie Van De Heuvel - a former Cat - and Paige Scott were drafted via NAB League club Greater Western Victoria Rebels.

Emerging Geelong footballer Georgie Prespakis, who earned a rising star nomination earlier this season, will miss with suspension.

Prespakis, who has received a two-match ban for a dangerous tackle, would've played against older sister Maddy in the midfield.

The teenager - a rising star nominee in her first season - collected 32 and 25 disposals respectively in her past two matches against North Melbourne and St Kilda.

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