1. The obvious deficiency in a one-goal result was the skill execution but go a little deeper and the reason for many of those errors was the pressure generated by Essendon. The Bombers were frenetic around the ball, whether they had it or were looking to win it back. Across the game the Essendon pressure rating was 1.92 (compared to 1.69) which is in the elite range. That meant Eagles players were often denied time to assess their options before distributing the football.

2. After a relatively quite first half by his standards, Tim Kelly tried to carry the team on his back after the main break. Eight possessions in the first two quarters, he had 21 touches thereafter and was a key factor in the Eagles resurgence. In the absence of Elliot Yeo in the final term, Kelly found another gear, finishing with 29 possessions and a game-high nine clearances and six inside 50 entries.

03:51

The Inside Swoop - Eagles v Essendon

Will Schofield is back for a chat in the rooms after a close battle with the Essendon Bombers

3. While the Eagles handed back possession of the ball with some sloppy use, on most other measures it was an even contest. The clearances were split at 41 apiece, the Eagles won contested possessions 129-125 and time in forward saw Essendon lead it 52-48 percent. Key measures that did go the Bombers’ way were tackles 66-43 and an inside 50 advantage that sat at 60-44.

4. In the first eight rounds of the season one of the most satisfying aspects of the team’s evolution has been the development of the youngsters. One of those rookies who has been flying under the radar has been key forward and support ruckman Jack Williams. The 20-year-old still has some physical growth but what he has produced has been exciting. He had 15 possessions, took three marks, two of them strong grabs deep in attack and finished off his work with three goals.

06:48

Rd 8 highlights v Bombers

The best moments from West Coast's home encounter against Essendon

5. Another of those youngsters who has been ultra consistent has been Brady Hough and he can chalk up another high profile scalp. Able to play on dangerous players of all shapes and sizes, evidenced by standing the likes of Willie Rioli, Cody Weightman and Michael Walters he spent most of his time on Jake Stringer last night. Hough kept ”the package” to just one goal and again demonstrated his ability to execute his role.