Where and when: Marvel Stadium, Saturday, April 10, 4.35pm AEST (2.35pm AWST)
TV: Live on 7, Fox Footy and Kayo
Last time we met: St Kilda 6.14 (50) def. by West Coast 9.11 (65) at the Gabba, round 17, 2020
The undermanned Eagles had their backs to the wall but produced one of their best wins under coach Adam Simpson to clinch a finals berth for the sixth-straight season. West Coast fell eight points behind early in the final quarter as St Kilda surged to the line with three unanswered goals, before the Eagles stormed back into the contest. Recruit Tim Kelly was superb and his brilliant late goal helped secure a memorable victory.
What it means for the Eagles: Banking two home victories has been important but good teams also win on the road. Knocking off a finals rival on their deck without midfield stars Luke Shuey and Elliot Yeo would provide another boost in confidence, as well as four valuable premiership points.
The stat: West Coast has won 11 of the past 12 meetings between the sides, stretching back to 2012. The only defeat came by eight points at Marvel Stadium in 2017.
The match-up: Tim Kelly v Jack Steele
The midfield battle will be pivotal and Kelly and Steele both have the talent to significantly influence the outcome. Kelly’s best game as an Eagle last year came against the Saints without Shuey or Yeo in the side and they won’t have forgotten, while Steele shapes as the opposition’s key man after being released from his tagging duties last season and claiming St Kilda’s club champion award. Both players are in excellent form, with Kelly averaging 28.3 disposals and five clearances this year, while Steele racked up 35 touches with seven clearances in the Saints’ 75-point loss to Essendon.
It’s a big week for: Brad Sheppard
The popular clubman becomes the 26th Eagle to play 200 games and is at the peak of his powers after earning overdue All Australian recognition in 2020. Sheppard’s consistency and reliability deep in defence is loved by his teammates and they will be keen to honour his milestone with victory.
Big call: Sheppard to sneak forward and kick the 20th goal of his career.
