The West Coast Eagles will go into Saturday’s final qualifying round against Geelong without a number of established stars as the ardours of a harsh campaign run right to season’s end.

Champion ruckman Nic Naitanui (knee) and wingman Andrew Gaff (ankle) have been severely restricted in their output for much of the season and will not make the trip to the Cattery.

The Eagles have been hit hard throughout the season by both COVID and long-term injuries, but despite the impediments players like Naitanui and Gaff have fought bravely to play when it has been physically possible. 

Also ruled out is young forward Jake Waterman who had knee surgery this week while exciting young utility player Brady Hough is ill and unable to play, while last round's medi-sub Greg Clark has been omitted – albeit he is on the list of four emergencies.

It is not all grim news as the Eagles look to finish off the season with a strong performance against the ladder leaders with midfielders Tim Kelly and Jai Culley resuming from suspension, brilliant small forward Willie Rioli Jnr. resuming after compassionate leave and ruckman-forward Bailey Williams recalled to replace Naitanui.

Junior Rioli was back at the club this week and trained well in today’s main session to prove he is ready for a return.

While the Eagles do not have a great record at GMHBA Stadium they will have special reason to dig deep with heart and soul forward Jamie Cripps playing his 200^th game for the club.