The West Coast Eagles' answer to the ‘Energiser Bunny’, the hard-running Andrew Gaff, continues to set high standards and lead the club’s midfield assault.
Gaff has built his career around a high, unwavering work rate and he was at his best against the Hawks.
The neat left-footer gathered 38 possessions at an efficiency rate of 83% and sent the ball inside the forward 50 metre arc eight times as he helped to present opportunities for the team’s electric forward line.
Gaff also gained 516 metres for his team, had a team-high 10 score involvements and reeled in 12 marks (equal team high with Brad Sheppard) as he linked defence and attack.
Evidence of his willingness to work to space to provide an outlet option came through 27 uncontested possessions, but he was also effective in the clinches with 12 of his touches coming in the heat of the contest.
With Dom Sheed (35 possessions, 12 contested), Jack Redden (31 touches, 15 contested, seven clearances) and Tim Kelly (25 disposals, eight inside 50 entries, five clearances) also putting their shoulder to the wheel throughout the match, they gave the Eagles important midfield ascendancy.