A change of mindset was the catalyst for East Perth’s 58-point triumph over West Perth on Saturday, according to Malcolm Karpany.

In a world of pain following the club’s most disappointing season-opening performance in its 116-year history – a 118-point thumping at the hands of Subiaco – the Royals had to pick themselves off the canvas and prepare for an important clash against their most fierce traditional rivals.

Karpany said the playing group absorbed the pain of its loss to the Lions and used it as motivation in the lead up to their encounter with the Falcons.

And rather than analyse their round one shortfalls to death, the Royals simply vowed to bring more energy and intent to their derby clash with West Perth.

“It was definitely not enjoyable last week with the loss we had,” Karpany said.

“Everyone was up and about and had energy. That’s what we wanted to bring, lots of energy and intent throughout the whole four quarters.

"We wanted to play hard for four quarters, not just a half or a quarter here and there. It needed to be for the whole game." 

That energy was on display from the first bounce at Leederville Oval.

East Perth shot out of the blocks, kicked the game’s first two goals and were not headed for the rest of the contest.

The Falcons had periods of dominance throughout the match, but the Royals’ gritty defence held their goal kickers at bay to ensure they never hurt the home side on the scoreboard.

Karpany embodied East Perth’s determination throughout the contest.

He attacked the ball all day, amassing 12 contested possessions – second only to teammate Kurt Mutimer.

After a quiet day out against Subiaco the week prior, Karpany set a modest goal to pressure the game at every opportunity on Saturday.

“I just wanted to play to my strengths, use the ball well and up my work rate and intent,” he said.

“I brought that and I was happy with my performance.”

East Perth has this weekend off courtesy of a bye, but Karpany was confident the team could carry its momentum into next Saturday’s round four clash with Perth.

“You want to just keep the roll on, but it just comes down to preparation, how we recover, how we use the week off and train throughout the week leading up to round four,” he said.

“We will see how it goes, but hopefully everyone is ready and switched on for our next game against Perth.”