Where and when: Adelaide Oval, Saturday, April 12, 12:50pm (11:20am WST)
TV: Delayed on 7 and 7plus in WA (1pm WST), live on Fox Footy and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: West Coast 4.10 (34) defeated by Carlton 14.15 (99) at Optus Stadium, round 24, 2024.
The Eagles suffered a disappointing 2024 season finale against the Blues, falling by 65 points at Optus Stadium, with the blustery conditions and unforced errors made for some scrappy football. The Blues mastered the conditions, dominating the Eagles around the contest. West Coast’s champion wingman Andrew Gaff fought hard in his final game, managing 25 touches and seven marks, but the team were unable to produce a fairytale finish. Elliot Yeo worked hard and finished with a team-high 28 touches, nine tackles and seven clearances, while Jamie Cripps managed a game-high 10 tackles and a goal in what was his 250th game.
What it means for the Eagles: There is a lot riding on this game, with both teams looking to secure their first win of the season. Eagles coach Andrew McQualter made a number of changes to the squad this week, with experienced forwards Jake Waterman and Liam Ryan returning to boost the firepower, while Jack Hutchinson was included after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in round one. The Eagles have been working on a new game plan and, while they haven’t bee able to get over the line so far this season, there has been a number of positive signs from the developing group. A win this weekend will be a huge confidence boost for the team.
The stat: Harley Reid played 85 per cent of game time in defence last round, finishing with a team-high 25 disposals and a career-high 16 handball-receives.
The match-up: Jake Waterman vs Jacob Weitering
The highly anticipated return of Jake Waterman will no doubt be a big factor in the outcome of this game. Waterman returns from a back-related calf injury and will hopefully pose a problem for Carlton’s All Australian defender Jacob Weitering. The Eagles have struggled to convert in front of goal this season, but with Waterman back in the lineup and presenting as a strong marking target inside the forward 50, West Coast will be looking to make the most of the added firepower.
It’s a big week for: The Eagles’ midfield
This week has seen a bit of a shake up with team selection, and it will be interesting to see how the young midfield adapts. Jack Hutchinson returns to the squad, bringing his speed and energy, while second-gamer Tom Gross will get another look in the middle after a fair effort in his debut game against the Giants last weekend, finishing with 17 touches, four marks and a goal.
Big call: The West Coast Eagles will get their first win of 2025, securing the four points over the Blues in Gather Round.
