Hi gang!

Five weeks of demanding footy, vastly improved performances, but only one win to show for our efforts. It’s going to be tough to get through to the finals, but I know the boys will never give up hope, and neither will I!

We’ve taken on four out of the top five sides and haven’t been far off the mark. I know it’s hard to take the losses, but the improved effort is what’s pleasing me most. Good on you boys!

This week we’ve got the Doggies. Last time we met, we handed them a 70-point drubbing at Patersons Stadium. This time we won’t have the services of a lot of our gun players, notably this week Darren Glass, Nic Nat and Luke Shuey, but we should get our reigning Club Champion Scott Selwood back.

I think Scooter could be a good match up for Ryan Griffen who’s been in outstanding form for the Dogs. Griffen and the rest of the Bulldogs midfield have been getting top service from Will Minson, who’s one of the fancies for All Australian selection. Without Nic Nat, Coxy will be up against it, but hopefully Scott Lycett can have a real impact. He’s been showing great signs in the WAFL, is big, strong and tough! Good luck Scotty!

Last time we played them, Jack Darling starred with five snags, so hopefully he can kick a bag this weekend. We have beaten the Bullies in five of our last six games at Etihad, so the ground holds no fears for us.

Just a reminder that it’s our annual Dig Deep game next Saturday against the Gold Coast. We’re raising money for Cancer Council WA, and we’re auctioning off the chance to toss the coin on the day, with all proceeds going to cancer research. Click here for more details, auction closes at 5pm TODAY!

And finally, thanks again to you, our loyal supporters. I know it hasn’t been the year you may have expected from the team to this point, but I can promise the boys are working harder than ever to turn things around and are keen to finish off the year strongly.

Enjoy the game this Sunday, go Eagles!

Love Rick