1. In the last fortnight the West Coast Eagles have been exposed to the intensity of finals football in the qualifying rounds. Roughly 30 percent of the team that has played those games were not a part of the September campaign last season and while the team has been disappointed with the results, the education leading into the finals series could be beneficial.
2. There are few things in football more aesthetically pleasing than seeing natural footballers at work. Willie Rioli is one such player who sees the game so clearly in his mind’s eye, he knows what he’s doing with the ball before he gets it. Some of his work against the Hawks was mesmerising as he conjured ways to bring teammates into the game and he dared to take challenging options that others would simply not contemplate. And he finished off his game with three goals.
3. Statistically it was difficult to comprehend a 38-point loss; the Eagles had more of the ball (+31 disposals), led uncontested marks and uncontested possessions, disposal efficiency was similar at 68 per cent. Yet, watching the game, Hawthorn appeared to be more efficient with ball , were bolder with their decision making and when in doubt were prepared to get the ball going their way and initiate a contest from there. So many times they seemed to have numbers forward after a scrambled kick towards their attacking half.
4. Elliot Yeo and Luke Shuey continued their strong seasons through the midfield, with Yeo leading the way collecting 15 contested possessions and winning eight clearances While Shuey had 10 contested possessions and eight clearances to again lead by example. Andrew Gaff and Jack Redden were also strong in those areas.
5. The way Lewis Jetta has elevated his defensive game has been remarkable. His exquisite ball use was a feature of a 23-possession game was amazing. He was prepared to channel the ball through the middle of the ground and gained 536 metres with the ball in hand. He was exceptional and was close to the Eagles best – eclipsed only by Andrew Gaff who was at his prolific best.
