Ashmore played for Western Bulldogs against Melbourne in what has become a traditional AFL curtain-raiser each year, in which the Demons won 4.13 (37) to 4.5 (29).

However, this year she ran out in the Bulldogs’ colours. The talented defender was delisted after the Demons’ inaugural clash against the Dogs, before being selected as a top-10 draft pick for the Dees last year.

Once again, she was delisted by Melbourne, only to this time be picked up by the Western Bulldogs in April.

Ashmore said she loved playing for the Bulldogs, despite her storied history with the Dees.

“It was amazing, I loved being with the Doggies this year – it’s such a good environment,” she said.

“It (the match) does start to get easier. The biggest thing was the nerves. There was pressure and the Doggies haven’t had a win yet, so that was a factor.

“It was amazing (to walk out on the MCG) in that only AFL players get to do this ... every girl was smiling.”

The two sides will contest the same fixture in August; the next time the Demons and Bulldogs meet in the AFL.

While she is unsure if she will be recalled for the rematch, Ashmore said she was pleased with her performance, particularly offensively. 

“I think I did all right offensively and I went better than I have in previous years.”

Ashmore will represent Victoria in the national women’s carnival in June.

The next AFL Women’s match will be played at Etihad Stadium on August 16.