The impact that experienced players have in matches can extend beyond pure statistics. And that could not have been more evident than the influence of Xavier Ellis playing for East Perth in Monday’s WA Day clash with arch rival West Perth.

Ellis had a managed 80 minutes of game time and while 17 possessions and six marks was a good result, his possession count was not the major factor.

Playing at half-back, Ellis helped organise the back six and was able to instruct younger players – including emerging Eagles Paddy Brophy and Tom Barrass – as the Royals scored an emphatic 48-point victory.

Brophy, the club’s first Irish import, had 15 possessions and three marks and relished the opportunity to play alongside Ellis, while Barrass, who continues to learn with every outing, had 12 possessions and took six marks deeper in defence.

Barrass, who has been named in the senior squad a few times in recent weeks without making the final cut, copped a heavy knock early, but fought on gamely to be an important player.

Another early casualty, ruckman-forward Scott Lycett, fought through great discomfort after receiving a corked buttock, which limited his output. He could not ruck, but played deep in the forward half and his four goals were a key factor.

Midfielders Kane  Lucas, Alec Waterman and Pat McGinnity were also major influences on the East Perth performance, with McGinnity laying claim for best-on-ground honours for his committed, hard-nosed attack on the ball.

He was involved in a couple of bone-jarring collisions, but still had 26 possessions and laid six strong tackles, while Lucas had 21 touches on a wing, used the ball well and sent the Royals inside attacking 50 six times.

Waterman, who had been ill in the days leading into the game, improved as it wore on and had 19 touches and four tackles.

Forwards Rowen Powell and Malcolm Karpany enjoyed solid performances, with Powell using his athleticism to find space, take eight marks and gather 16 possessions. Karpany had 11 disposals, but more importantly applied strong pressure around the contest, laid four tackles and finished off his work with two goals.

In the reserves, Corey Adamson enjoyed an outstanding game, with 26 possessions and five marks despite being tagged through the midfield. He also sent the ball inside the attacking 50-metre arc four times and continues to improve with every game.