1. It is almost impossible to quantify the knock-on effects of playing with virtually no bench for more than a quarter against Fremantle a week ago. Although sports science plays a critical role in preparation from week to week, even off a seven day break some players who played inordinate game time against the Dockers looked fatigued in the second half against the Dees. You need all things aligned and everyone feeling fresh and strong against a quality, mature team like Melbourne.

2. The Melbourne midfield is as good and runs as deep as any in the AFL. Clayton Oliver, Christian Petracca and Jack Viney are genuine A-graders and the young Eagles who competed against them should take notes and file them away. Reuben Ginbey, Luke Edwards, Elijah Hewett and Jai Culley are all exciting prospects and in two or three years from now the Eagles will be hoping they mature into players capable of having a similar impact.

08:40

Rd 4 highlights v Demons

The best moments from the Eagles clash against Melbourne at Optus Stadium

3. Young big man Bailey Williams continues to build his game, despite being out-pointed by dual all-Australian ruckman Brodie Grundy. Recruited as a key forward who could pinch hit in the ruck, Williams has needed to work on his second string and has impressed of late. The athletic 22-year-old had 17 possessions and 19 hit outs and his game will continue to evolve in coming seasons. In the meantime he is one of the emerging players with some big weekly challenges against the best ruckmen in the competition.

4. The under-manned Eagles struggled to generate enough supply in the forward half with the inside 50 count reading 38-58. Obviously that’s a big deficit and makes it tough to maintain scoreboard pressure. Despite the limited supply Oscar Allen, in particular, provided a presence in attack and finished with three goals. Having missed all of last season, he will continue to build and to create the synergy with Jack Darling and Jake Waterman.

08:35

Simpson post-match v Demons

Watch West Coast's press conference after round four's match against Melbourne

5. Midfielder Andrew Gaff is spending more time as an inside midfielder and is relishing the role. Having played most of his 256 games on a wing he has enjoyed the opportunity to be in the thick of the action and was a significant contributor in this performance. He had 13 kicks and 11 handballs with 10 of those 24 touches contested possessions to go with five clearances. He has also a key on-field presence in the development of the afore-mentioned emerging midfielders.