1. A good starting point is always intensity and pressure and to then build on that base. The Eagles were relentless, their tackling ferocity unnerving the Giants as they focused on addressing slow starts. While the margin was just seven points it did not reflect the control the Eagles enjoyed, particularly after quarter-time. The tackle count was relatively even, which was something of a surprise because there seemed to a stronger physical intent from the Eagles even in the opening quarter. That intensity resulted in a 30-20 inside 50 advantage.

2. One of the unsung stars of the Eagles performances in the early rounds of season seven has been key defender Sophie McDonald. The barometer for the Giants for many years has been veteran Irish star Cora Staunton, a power forward with many tricks who can carry her teammates on her shoulders. McDonald was assigned the key match up and held Staunton scoreless in an exemplary defensive effort. Staunton was even thrown into the midfield in an effort to break the shackles.

04:33

AFLW Rd 4 highlights v Giants

The Giants and Eagles clash in round 4 of the 2022 NAB AFL Women's Competition

3. When assessing the youth in the Eagles line-up sometimes it is easy to overlook tenacious midfielder Bella Lewis. Already in her third campaign for the club Lewis is just 19 and has won a Club Champion Award. Despite her youth she is seen as one of the key ‘senior’ players and helped to set the tone for the Eagles with her aggression and impact, especially early in the game. Lewis remained influential throughout with 16 possessions, four marks and four tackles in a wonderful display.

4. Another of the younger players who has been given strong exposure in her short time at the club, Sarah Lakay, continued to build on her season. After making her debut in S6 in the early part of the year, the 19-year-old has made a strong impression and was highly influential in the win over the Giants. She might have had only three possessions, but 29 hit outs and three tackles and her physicality were important in the Eagles taking control.

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Prior post match v Giants

AFLW Senior coach Michael Prior addresses the media after the round four match against the Giants

5. The bold ball movement of the Eagles was exciting to watch as they took the game on with their run and carry and again leading the charge was captain Emma Swanson. With 23 possessions and a goal she was in the thick of most of her team’s forward thrusts, but was equally important in the clinches with nine tackles. Combined with Bella Lewis and Aisling McCarthy they flexed their muscle around the contest while Mikayla Western and debutant Jaide Britton provided high calibre run.