Where and when: Henson Park, Sunday, September 29, 3:05pm (1:05pm WST)
TV: Live on Channel 7 and Fox Footy, and streaming live on Kayo
Last time we met: West Coast 3.6 (24) def. by GWS 6.8 (44) at Blacktown, round six, 2023.
After a bright start from West Coast, the visitors were overrun by an impressive Giants outfit at Blacktown. Goals from Ella Roberts and Aimee Schmidt put the Eagles in front at quarter time, but GWS responded strongly and took control for the remainder of the game. Zarlie Goldsworthy starred for the Giants, finishing with three goals, while Alyce Parker was dominant with 23 touches and 10 clearances. Belinda Smith was important for the Eagles, finishing with a team-high 22 touches and six tackles, while Roberts managed 20 disposals and 10 marks to go along with her goal.
What it means for the Eagles: After a successful 3-2 start to the season, the Eagles have a chance to secure their position in the top eight with a victory over the Giants on Sunday. Despite last week’s loss to the Lions, West Coast have shown growth from week to week and the team continue to grow and develop under new coach Daisy Pearce. The vibes are high and another win to wrap the first-half of the season will only heighten the belief and confidence within the group.
The stat: Reigning club champion Charlie Thomas needs 15 touches on Sunday to reach 500 career-disposals, and will become just the fifth AFLW Eagle to reach the milestone.
Oppo in focus: Alyce Parker
Alyce Parker is a driving force in the Giants’ midfield. She boasts a damaging left foot, is a prolific ball winner and is one of the league’s best clearance players. The two-time All-Australian comes into this game following 15 disposals and seven tackles in the Giant’s loss to the Swans last round, a relatively quiet day out by her usual standards, and she will be looking to ramp it up this week at Henson Park.
It’s a big week for: Roxy Roux
Electric forward-mid Roxy Roux will make her club debut on Sunday against the Giants. After five seasons with the Dockers, Roux was picked up by West Coast in the 2023 trade period and has been a welcome inclusion to this developing group. Unfortunately, after an impressive pre-season, Roux sustained a broken hand in the lead up to round one and has missed the first part of the 2024 season. After ticking off the final steps in her rehab, Roux will make her highly anticipated debut in the blue and gold this weekend.
Big call: Roxy Roux will kick two goals in her West Coast Eagles debut.
