Where and when: MCG, Sunday, May 11, 1:10pm (11:10am WST)
TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Sports and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: West Coast 16.13 (109) defeated Richmond 10.10 (70) at Optus Stadium, round six, 2024.
The West Coast Eagles overcame a slow start, conceding the first four goals of the game, to record their first victory of the 2024 season over the Tigers. Elliot Yeo was at his best, managing 27 touches and two goals, while Jake Waterman kicked a career-best six majors. Eagles’ youngster Harley Reid managed 27 disposals, with Reuben Ginbey and Campbell Chesser also impressing throughout.
What it means for the Eagles: West Coast continue to chase an elusive first win of 2025, with this game shaping up to be a prime opportunity for the boys in blue and gold to make it onto the winners’ list. Playing on the MCG will be a new experience for a number of players, and what better venue to taste victory? Former Richmond premiership pair Jack Graham and Liam Baker will come face to face with their old team for the first time since pre-season, with sparks sure to fly in what will be a surreal experience for them.
The stat: Oscar Allen won 12 intercept possessions last round against the Demons – ranked No. 1 for the round.
The match-up: Oscar Allen v Tom Lynch
Oscar Allen will likely be tasked with keeping Tigers spearhead Tom Lynch quiet on Sunday, with Allen coming off one of his strongest defensive performances last weekend against Melbourne. Lynch was held goalless last round in Richmond’s loss to the Hawks, and will no doubt be looking to bounce back this week and produce a stronger performance.
It’s a big week for: Sandy Brock
After a standout defensive performance in the WAFL Eagles’ win over South Fremantle last weekend, Sandy Brock has earned a recall to the senior side to take on the Tigers. In the absence of vice-captain Jeremy McGovern (concussion protocols), Brock will be looking to play a significant role in nullifying the involvement of Richmond’s key forwards through his strong athletic profile and intercepting ability.
Big call: Archer Reid will kick a career-high three goals in his first appearance at the MCG on Sunday.
