Co-captain Liam Duggan believes the back to basics approach against Brisbane could be the formula to challenge Fremantle in Sunday’s RAC Derby.
The 60th clash between the crosstown rivals pits two winless sides against each other, and there will be more than just bragging rights on the line at Optus Stadium.
West Coast ended a five-game losing streak to the Dockers in the corresponding home RAC Derby last year, surging to a 37-point triumph on the back of an uncompromising brand around the contest.
“Some great memories from that game. One of those where it clicked for us on the day based off effort and hard work and the basics of football, and I think that’s what got us a 30-point lead on the weekend (in Brisbane) as well,” Duggan said.
“We’ll lean into that a little bit potentially, we’re a much different side with a very different way of playing now, but we remember being in those games and what it felt like.
“We’ll try and harness a bit of that and launch off what was a better week this week into the derby.”
The Eagles took some confidence from challenging the reigning premier at the Gabba, in what Duggan described as the most humid conditions he has played in.
West Coast led by four goals at half-time before being overrun by 19 points, but it was an impressive response to the season-opening defeat to Gold Coast.
“We felt really good about our game to half-time, and we still saw elements throughout the whole day in the third and fourth quarter that that was us,” Duggan said.
“Brisbane found another way to get through us and that worked for them in the end.
“We were really proud of the effort, albeit really disappointed that we gave ourselves a chance to win that game and weren’t able to capitalise on it.”
Among the shining lights was young wingman Tyrell Dewar, who lit up the opening term with nine disposals and two goals.
“He was impressive,” Duggan said. “He brought something to us that really excited us.
“Back to the wing where he trained all pre-season.
“We were really happy for him. He’s put in a lot of work to be in a position where he’s really fit and ready to go.”
