Harry Edwards’ AFL debut didn’t quite go according to plan, but he showed West Coast fans enough in the 30 or so minutes he played against Geelong at Optus Stadium in round nine.

The then 19-year-old got his hands on the ball early, almost reeling in a spectacular defensive mark, and seconds later he collected his first disposal at the highest level, a left-foot clearing kick to quell the Cats’ first attacking raid. He executed another clearing kick a minute later, effected an important spoil not long after to deny Brandan Parfitt’s audacious attempt at goal and his third and final touch of the game was a patient handball under pressure.

Unfortunately Edwards’ night ended less than four minutes into the second quarter. The Swan Districts product got caught in an awkward position while trying to kill and inside 50 entry, his head colliding with teammates Brad Sheppard’s hip as four players flew for the footy. He was taken from the field, diagnosed with concussion-like symptoms and did not return for the remainder of the match.

Nonetheless, Edwards proved to his teammates, Eagles fans – and most importantly himself – that he was what it takes to compete against the game’s best players. He has been a regular feature in the club’s gym throughout the off-season and will be eager to continue his development when West Coast’s first- to fourth-year players return to the training track next week.

Season averages:

Disposals: 3.0
Contested possessions: 2.0
Rebound 50s: 2.0
Intercepts: 2.0