1. Got grit

If it wasn’t already evident after the first two weeks, Thursday night’s battle with the Bulldogs showed just how much grit and determination this team really has, and how they can utilise it to get the job done. After finding themselves two goals down early, the Eagles dug deep and fought hard to get back in the contest, going on to kick four unanswered goals to take the lead, and ultimately, the win.

2. Drennan can do no wrong

Experienced former Sun Ali Drennan has been an absolute ball-magnet and a tackling machine for the Eagles so far this season, and Thursday night was no exception. Drennan finished with a game-high 26 touches, a game-high 12 tackles, a game-high eight clearances and her first goal in the blue and gold, and her maturity and composure around the ball has been inspiring.  

3. Roberts keeps rolling

Teenage talent Ella Roberts earned herself BOG for her performance against the Dogs, the exciting midfielder showing why she’s one of the brightest emerging stars in the competition. Roberts’ speed and agility, paired with her footy smarts and ability to read the play make her an incredible asset to the Eagles, and she continues to improve every week. Roberts managed 23 touches, four marks, six tackles, four clearances and one thrilling goal on Thursday night.

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Roberts awesome goal from range

Ella Roberts puts the foot down and bounces through a cracking goal in the third quarter

4. The backline means business

When the going gets tough, the Eagles’ backs gets tougher. With a backline consisting of 62-gamer Belinda Smith, All-Australian Charlie Thomas and Rising Star nominee Beth Schilling to name a few, this group makes up one of the most effective lines in the competition. Schilling and Thomas currently sit equal-first in the league for intercept possessions, averaging 8.7 a game, with Thomas also tallying a league-high 20 rebound 50s for the season so far.

5. Connection Level = HIGH

With three games down in their 2024 campaign, this team continues to go from strength to strength, on and off the field. With a varying age range between 18 and 33 years, the connection between teammates has never been stronger, emphasised by a solid leadership group bringing everyone together. The extended Melbourne road trip between the Bulldogs game and Tuesday’s clash with Collingwood provides further opportunity for the players to bond and reinforce those relationships.