Where and when: Adelaide Oval, Sunday, July 13, 4:10pm
TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Sports and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: Port Adelaide 16.24 (120) defeated West Coast 10.10 (70) at Adelaide Oval, round 1, 2024.
The Eagles faced a tough challenge in their 2024 season opener against Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval, going down by 50 points despite several promising individual performances. No.1 draft pick Harley Reid impressed on debut with 16 disposals, five clearances and four inside 50s, providing a glimpse of his future potential. Jack Petruccelle was lively up forward with three goals, while Elliot Yeo and Jayden Hunt worked hard through the middle. West Coast showed resilience with a mini fightback in the third term, sparked by goals to Jack Darling and co-captain Liam Duggan, but were ultimately overpowered by a polished and relentless Port Adelaide side.
What it means for the Eagles: After a disappointing performance against the Giants last Friday night, the Eagles will be looking to bounce back quickly and continue their build under first-year coach Andrew McQualter. With just seven rounds remaining, it’s a vital opportunity for the young group to rediscover form, build confidence and finish the season with momentum. The challenge is significant against a strong Port outfit, but the Eagles will take confidence from their last away trip when they pushed ladder-leading Collingwood deep into the final term.
The stat: West Coast started 9-2 in matches at Adelaide Oval after the venue's redevelopment but have lost their past nine clashes there, including three to Port Adelaide by an average margin of 58 points.
The match-up: Reuben Ginbey v Mitch Georgiades
WA product Georgiades has been in rare form this season and sits equal second in the Coleman Medal race with 42 majors. The mobile Port spearhead can get you in the air or up the ground, which is why Ginbey shapes as an ideal match-up given he only gives away one centimetre to the 192cm Georgiades and can run all day. The gun Eagles defender has enjoyed a stellar season himself and is likely in the running for a podium place in the John Worsfold Medal.
It’s a big week for: Jamie Cripps
Sunday’s clash with Port Adelaide marks a significant milestone for Jamie Cripps as he becomes just the 12th player in West Coast history to reach 250 games. A premiership player and one of the club’s most consistent performers over more than a decade, Cripps has been a selfless, reliable presence across half-forward and occasionally on a wing. Renowned for his work rate, pressure and team-first attitude, Cripps’ milestone is a testament to his resilience and professionalism. The Eagles will no doubt draw inspiration from the occasion as they aim to honour his contribution with a spirited performance away from home.
Big call: Elijah Hewett will collect his career-high disposals with over 22 possessions for the first time.
