1. Costly slow start

The Eagles’ slow start on Saturday proved costly, as it so often does in this league. Essendon hit the scoreboard twice in the first quarter, with West Coast remaining goalless, and while the home side were able to effectively up their game in the remaining three quarters, the two-goal head start from the Bombers was too big of a margin to chase down. The competition is evolving year on year, and if you don’t come out firing from the opening bounce, the opposition will make you pay.

2. Roberts is tough as nails

Rising star Ella Roberts continues to be a standout in the AFLW, the 19-year-old showing toughness and footy smarts well beyond her years. Roberts positions herself well around every contest, and never shies away from a big hit. She copped two knocks to the nose in Saturday’s game, coming from the field with blood flowing from her face, only to get taped up and get back out there with her teammates as soon as she was able. Roberts’ career is just getting started, and the incredible talent and drive we’ve seen so far is just the beginning.

3. Look out for Lakay

Sarah Lakay played her first game of 2024 of Saturday, returning from a back injury that cut her season short last year. At 186cm, Lakay is a dominant force in the ruck, and Saturday showed why she is one of the strongest talls in the league. Not only did Lakay manage 12 disposals and 13 hitouts, she also finished with a game-high seven clearances.

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A hard nut that keeps on going: Harken

We captured the moment Sasha Goranova presented Jayme Harken with her jumper ahead of Jayme's debut today against the Bombers

4. Harken makes six

Claremont Tigers product Jayme Harken made her AFLW debut on Saturday, the sixth Eagle to make their league debut so far this season. The back-to-back Dhara Kerr medallist and WAFLW superstar is a picture of perseverance, making her highly anticipated debut at 28 years of age. Harken finished Saturday’s game with nine disposals, two marks and two clearances and showed a solid intensity around the contest.

5. Eagles faithful bring the noise

For the second week in a row, over 2000 West Coast fans have turned up to Mineral Resources Park to show their support for blue and gold. The atmosphere was again electric, the cheering from the crowd was inspiring and the game day experience only enhances from week to week.