While the result was not what West Coast hoped for running out, coach Michael Prior was pleased with the contributions made from key young players against Richmond.

The hosts went down to the Tigers by 19 points at Mineral Resources Park but showed resolve when they got within a goal coming into the start of the fourth quarter.  

“We didn’t have a great opening giving away a 50-metre penalty (and goal), however we spoke about some things at halftime and we thought if we get this right we’ll be in contention and that gave us confidence,” Prior said.  

“It came down to some organisational stuff behind the ball and through our midfield, to their credit I thought they got it right and the score after halftime ended up being even.”  

Halfback Charlie Thomas had a career performance with 23 disposals and seven tackles slowing down key Tigers Monique Conti and Grace Egan.

Having already had two Eagles nominated for the Rising Star Award over the past two weeks, Prior believes another could be on the way after Thomas’s courageous performance.  

“She has to be in the conversation, I thought she was outstanding tonight and even for the last few weeks she’s been playing well. So she’s got to be up there for a nomination,” he said.

“She added another key part to her game tonight and took her career a little bit further and played with a bit of poise and a bit of polish.

“Charlie has really grown in that halfback role for us this year and deserves any accolades that come her way.

“We’ve simplified the game for her this year and it’s working. We threw her around a bit last year, but she’s settled in the backline working with Rohan McHugh which has really improved her.”  

Prior also outlined the hard work put in by his midfield as regular performers Emma Swanson and Bella Lewis were joined by some new faces who showed their worth.  

“We’ve had an even contribution through our midfield over the last couple of weeks,” he said.

“Bella Lewis had been outstanding over the last few games and Swanny continues the lead the team well.  

“We’ve got Aish Mac dominating as well but tonight I thought Courtney Rowley took a step forward with her role out on the wing, we are getting more contributors out in that part of the field which is great.”  

Despite the results Prior’s young side seems to be on an upward trajectory with different rookies putting their hands up with impressive performances each week.  

The Eagles will take the positives learnt from the Tigers clash to Melbourne next week as they face Geelong during the AFLW’s annual Pride Round.