The West Coast Eagles were overwhelmed by Fremantle in a practice match at Mineral Resources Park tonight but despite an eight-goal defeat there was much to like.

The young Eagles applied good pressure particularly forward of centre, created opportunities in the forward half, but Fremantle was cleaner in congestion and more damaging on the outside as they won 12.12 (84) to 5.16 (46).

Coach Adam Simpson has been on the record in pre-season saying the Eagles wanted to be better in the contest and to play the game more in their forward half and there were elements of that. The next part of the equation is to do better with their conversion.

Experienced defender Jayden Hunt continued his build up to the start of the season with a dazzling performance at half-back while Brady Hough also continued his preparation with a positive performance.

With four-time all-Australian Jeremy McGovern watching from the sidelines with Harry Edwards and Josh Rotham, the Eagles utilised ruckman Callum Jamieson in the back half and he performed strongly.

Midfield bull Elliot Yeo and reigning Club Champion Tim Kelly did some good things in the middle while youngsters Harley Reid, Loch Rawlinson and Coen Livingstone produced encouraging efforts with NGA product Livingstone kicking a neat set shot goal.

Reid played midfield and at half-back and showed a willingness to take the game on before leaving the game late through cramp. Hough also experienced a cramping episode late.

Up forward Ryan Maric and Jake Waterman showed glimpses of their best alongside co-captain Oscar Allen.

Unfortunately second year midfielder Reuben Ginbey received a hard knock to the nose in the second quarter and was taken out of the contest under concussion protocols and ruckman Matt Flynn did not take his place in the team after an unusual hamstring injury at training on Friday.

The club is continuing to examine the extent of the injury, but fear tendon damage.

While Fremantle played with greater dash, particularly in the second half, they also switched in eight fresh players at after half-time while the Eagles used the same list throughout.