1. While the Eagles’ forward line has a lot of exciting talent, there are still some minor kinks they need to iron out so they can start to hit the scoreboard more often to stay in contention with the leading clubs in the competition. Tackles within forward 50 could be the key as West Coast only recorded two tackles in that area throughout the entire clash on Saturday. If the forwards can trap the ball inside their front half more effectively, goals will be easier to come by for this ever-improving Eagles outfit.

2. Former basketballer Eleanor Hartill was thrown into different positions this weekend and subsequently flourished. Usually a defender, Hartill got time in the ruck and up forward, proving she can be a versatile talent for the Eagles. Her height gave her a presence in the forward 50 and she was able to draw in defenders allowing her teammates to play with a bit more freedom. She even put through a crafty bouncing snap in the fourth quarter that dribbled through the big sticks, resulting in her first ever goal in AFLW. While her defensive efforts in previous rounds have been impressive, West Coast’s coaching group may continue to use her around the ground, adding a bit of unpredictability to their structure.

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Hartill delivers an insane dribble goal

Eleanor Hartill snags her first AFLW goal with an incredible dribble

3. From the roar of the crowd when she entered the field of play, it was clear East Fremantle’s Ashleigh Gomes has amassed a large following through the WAFLW this year and she showed why on Saturday during her first game in AFLW. Gomes put the cherry on top of her long-awaited debut by slotting her first goal from 20 metres out in the third quarter as her side started to regain composure to claw their way back into the contest. It’s evident that Gomes has worked her tail off to earn a playing spot for West Coast and the injury replacement player  took her opportunity on debut.

4. Emma Swanson was again impeccable within the Eagles’ midfield, using her elite motor to amass 28 disposals, 12 contested possessions and eight clearances to add to a season of excellent performances. As the end of the year looms and discussions for All-Australian selections start to arise, Swanson keeps reminding the entire competition why she should be a clear choice for the honour. Her effect on her teammates is a big reason why West Coast seems to be on an upward trajectory this season. Inspiring performances can do a lot to drive a young side and Swanson’s ability to walk the walk makes it easy for her rookie teammates to follow her into games.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 22: Ashleigh Gomes of the Eagles posse for a photo with her supporters during the 2022 S7 AFLW Round 09 match between the West Coast Eagles and the Western Bulldogs at Mineral Resources Park on October 22, 2022 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos)

5. No matter who they play, West Coast’s emerging group go into each match believing they can win. The Eagles have faced tougher fixtures towards the backend of the competition, however despite their opponent’s position on the ladder the side have marched into matches still unfazed. Against the Bulldogs the Eagles managed to get clearances early and gave themselves opportunities to take get a two-goal head start but couldn’t convert and it proved costly. West Coast has the potential to match it with Melbourne early this weekend if they can come into start the game with the same energy and hit the scoreboard when the ball enters inside 50.