Where and when: MCG, Sunday, July 3, 2.10pm (12.10pm AWST)

TV: Live on Ch7 in WA, Fox Footy, Kayo and the AFL Live Official app.

Last time we met: West Coast 8.8 (56) def. by Richmond 25.15 (165) at Optus Stadium, round seven, 2022

It was a dirty night for the Eagles, who suffered their biggest loss at Optus Stadium and heaviest defeat since 2008 against rampaging Richmond. Tom Lynch bagged seven goals for the visitors and the Tigers booted 20 goals directly from turnovers. Despite the disappointing defeat, there was a rare highlight late in the game when champion forward Josh Kennedy snapped his 700th career goal – one of his four second-half majors - giving the hardy fans who stayed until the end something to stand and cheer. 

What it means for the Eagles: With finals out of the equation, the remainder of 2022 is about growth and development for West Coast and stepping onto the MCG for the first time to face a powerful club like Richmond will be a valuable experience for the next generation. Young guns Brady Hough and Rhett Bazzo, plus debutant Zane Trew, will take plenty from the trip, but make no mistake the Eagles – who have picked a team blended with youth and experience - will still be travelling east believing they can upset the Tigers. 

The stat: Jack Darling will become the 10th Eagle to reach the 250-game milestone, joining Andrew Embley, Peter Matera, Drew Banfield, Josh Kennedy, Guy McKenna, Darren Glass, Glen Jakovich, Dean Cox and games record holder Shannon Hurn. 

The match-up: Tom Barrass v Tom Lynch
Eagles star Barrass was a late withdrawal last time the teams met and Lynch dominated thanks to some silver service, booting 7.5 and hauling down 14 marks. While his partner-in-crime Jeremy McGovern (ribs) is absent, Barrass has the ability to stifle Richmond’s monster forward, but will need help in the air from the likes of Shannon Hurn, Elliot Yeo and third-gamer Rhett Bazzo. 

It’s a big week for: Zane Trew
The Swan Districts product has endured a wretched run with injury since he was one of the 2020 draft’s biggest sliders, all the way to pick 12 in the rookie ballot, but Trew will finally get the chance to show his wares at the top level at the home of football. Trew battled hamstring and back woes last year, and his pre-season was compromised by shin splints. When he has been able to get on the park, the 20-year-old’s stoppage craft has been impressive and West Coast fans will be excited to get a look at the club’s 15th debutant this year. 

Big call: Jack Darling to bag an equal career-best six goals, continuing his impressive run of form.