The WAFL Eagles finished their pre-season on a high note, besting Subiaco by 58-points at Leederville oval on Saturday.
Coach Kyal Horsley was pleased with his team’s showing and impressed with the intensity throughout the game.
“It was a really strong performance, we got to see our system and the guys played with a lot of spirit,” Horsley said.
“Subiaco were undermanned, but I was really proud of the way our guys played at a professional level and maintained their intensity, with respect to Subi having a lot of their League players out.
“I thought both clubs really performed at a high level and kept the game entertaining, so I was really pleased.”
Standout performers:
“It was a really even performance across the board,” Horsley said.
“I thought Jack Williams was a standout up forward, he took 10 or 11 marks and was a really big presence, he’s developing really well.
“Zane Trew in his second week back from injury, played with electricity in his feet and had some really big standout moments on managed minutes.
“Harry Creasey who was also back from injury, he played really well and organised the group from the backline and used the ball really well.
“Ethan Sambo was utilised everywhere, he played forward, he played on the wing, he played inside and also played back for a bit, he really understands our system now and plays with real flair and excitement.
“HJ, Harvey Johnston, got a lot of it on the wing, kicked two goals, really exciting for the club and he’s a young man who’s made a big impression with his spirit and his attitude around the club.
“Coby Burgiel was also really damaging from the backline, he had a big impact with ball in hand and showed real composure when the game was a bit chaotic.”
AFL listed players:
Josh Rotham:
“Second game back now for ‘Roth’, he played some more minutes, led really well and has a really big presence with WAFL and is building nicely.”
Andrew Gaff:
“Big game disposal-wise, but it was his leadership and the way he was helping his teammates which was the most impressive aspect for me. He got a lot of the ball and used it well as you’d expect, but his leadership and want to help others was really pleasing.”
Alex Witherden:
“He only played the first half as he was the AFL emergency, but he was also a really good leader, invested in others and performed well both offensively and defensively.”
Clay Hall:
“Second game back from injury as well, he got a lot of the footy and had a lot of shots at goal and he’s finding a way to get dangerous, another step forward for a young man who’s making a big impression.”
Loch Rawlinson:
“Loch played the half-forward role and worked really hard for the team, linking up and providing a lot of pressure, he got a lot of tackles and got us a lot of repeat stoppages inside our forward 50. He played his role really well and worked really hard and shows bits of flair when he gets his chance.”
Jordyn Baker:
“Strong game from ‘Bakes’, defended really well, a couple of big moments and big tackles, and was really classy with ball in hand.”
Coen Livingstone:
“Slow start for big Coen, but then after quarter time when he sunk his teeth into the game, he was really dominant in the ruck and gave our mids first use, follow up was really strong.”
Tyrell Dewar:
“Played the half-forward role, really connected the ground for us, getting up and down, and then taking the chance when he got it. It can be a selfless and tough role, but you can see his speed and athleticism and want to work for the team which is impressive.”
