Where and when: Marvel Stadium, Sunday, May 12, 1:00pm (11:00am WST)
TV: Live on 7 in WA, Fox Footy and streaming on Kayo
Last time we met: West Coast 8.9 (57) defeated by Collingwood 18.12 (120) at Optus Stadium, round 12, 2023.
It was a tough task for the Eagles, down on troops against arguably the best team in the competition and - after suffering further injuries before quarter time - West Coast were left with just two players on the bench for majority of the game. Despite the spate of injuries, the Eagles fought bravely and edged within 14 points in the third quarter. Dom Sheed led the way in his 150th game, while Elliot Yeo produced an inspiring performance in the third term. Tim Kelly and Oscar Allen (three goals) impressed, along with Liam Duggan off half-back. West Coast ran out of gas in the final term, with Collingwood’s Nick Daicos, Tom Mitchell and Taylor Adams propelling the visitors to victory.
What it means for the Eagles: West Coast will be without three important players this weekend, leading goalkicker Jake Waterman (concussion), experienced midfield bull Elliot Yeo (groin) and second-year talent Noah Long (knee). The Eagles have shown some extremely positive signs over the past month, and the team will hopefully continue to build to a point where they are rewarded with another win. It’ll likely be a challenging matchup against the reigning premiers, but if West Coast can remain competitive, it will be encouraging signs for what’s to come when they return to full strength.
The stat: Liam Duggan is averaging a career-high 24 disposals, 500 metres gained and 7.5 marks this season.
The match-up: Reuben Ginbey v Nick Daicos
In the absence of Elliot Yeo, Ginbey will likely be handed the tough task of limiting Nick Daicos’ involvement in the game on Sunday. Two young guns of the competition going head-to-head, it’s an exciting prospect for fans to keep an eye on. Daicos’ impact has been immense for the Pies, and West Coast will need a strong and specific plan to keep him contained.
It’s a big week for: Tyrell Dewar. The Naitanui Academy product has been close to a debut before and is finally in for his first game in the big time. The classy and quick small forward has some exciting attributes that should translate to the way the modern-day game is being played, and he becomes Eagle No.289 on Mother's Day.
Big call: Exciting forward Liam Ryan will kick three goals in his third game of the season.
Milestone: Alex Witherden will play his 50th Eagles game on Sunday against the Pies.
