Putting a compromised pre-season recovering from knee surgery behind him, Duggan delivered a fine campaign resulting in his second top-five finish in the Club Champion award.
After being unavailable for round one, Duggan returned against North Melbourne in round two with no warm-up matches under his belt and produced an excellent 18-disposal, one-goal game at Marvel Stadium.
The following week he was in the Health and Safety Protocols, but after that the dependable left-footer played every game and helped guide the younger Eagles through a tough season.
Played most of the season in defence given the absences of Brad Sheppard (retirement) and Tom Cole (ankle), after spending some time in midfield in 2021, where his total commitment to every contest continued to inspire those around him.
Standout performance:
The Eagles went into the second RAC Derby of the season with their backs against the wall. Undermanned, with several players just hanging on, it was a mighty effort to push the finals-bound crosstown rivals to four goals.
Duggan’s physicality in a ferocious contest helped set the standard, and in just 79 per cent game time he finished with 30 disposals, a whopping 791m gained, 10 marks, seven inside 50s, six rebound 50s and five tackles.
West Coast didn’t get over the line, but the 25-year-old, in combination with dominant full-back Tom Barrass, showed why he’s rated so highly as a leader at the Eagles.
Season averages
Disposals – 20.4
Pressure acts – 14.3
Marks – 7.4
Rebound 50s – 3.9
Tackles – 3.7
