Where and when: Optus Stadium, Sunday, June 15, 4:10pm
TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Sports and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: West Coast 6.14 (50) defeated by Carlton 17.19 (121) at Adelaide Oval, round five, 2025.
West Coast's young line-up was taught a tough lesson in a 71-point loss to Carlton at Adelaide Oval earlier this year. Thrashed around the ball, the Eagles couldn't handle the experience of the Blues' midfield and West Coast's backline was under siege throughout. West Coast was best served by midfield recruits Liam Baker (23 disposals) and Jack Graham (20), while defender Ryan Maric (21 and seven rebounds) worked hard to generate offensive play and Tom Gross (18) backed up his excellent debut in his second game.
What it means for the Eagles: After a disappointing result last week against the Kangaroos in Bunbury, the Eagles will be looking to bounce back and show improvements in both kicking efficiency in front of goal and pressure on the ball in the opposition 50. Dual Coleman Medallist Charlie Curnow will be dangerous in Carlton’s forward line, and a young Eagles backline will have their hands full keeping him out of the contest. Playing four quarters of competitive footy will be a must for the Eagles to ensure the 11th placed Blues don’t run away with it.
The stat: Liam Baker is the only player in the AFL to be averaging 20-plus disposals, 10-plus contested possessions and six-plus intercepts this season.
The match-up: Matt Flynn v Tom De Koning
Matt Flynn will come head-to-head with Carlton big Tom De Koning on Sunday in the battle of the rucks. Flynn has been impressing with his work around the ground in recent weeks, particularly with his aerial work and strong hands in a marking contest. De Koning comes into his round after a standout performance against experienced All-Australian Todd Goldstein in the Blues’ win over the Bombers last round.
It’s a big week for: Tom McCarthy
New mid-season recruit Tom McCarthy will make his West Coast Eagles debut on Sunday, after only arriving at the club two weeks ago. The 24-year-old has impressed in the WAFL the past two rounds, tallying 46 touches, 10 marks and a goal, and will get the opportunity to show his skills on the big stage in front of the Eagles’ faithful.
Big call: Tom McCarthy will kick the first goal of his AFL career in his debut game.
