Where and when: Optus Stadium, Saturday, July 26, 2:15pm

TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Sports and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)

Last time we met: Fremantle 15.16 (106) defeated West Coast 10.8 (68) at Optus Stadium, round 3, 2025.

West Coast fell to Fremantle by 38 points in round three, with costly turnovers and a dominant Dockers midfield proving the difference result. Despite a promising start and spirited moments from new recruits Liam Baker, Jack Graham and young guns Harley and Archer Reid, the Eagles were outplayed in clearances and inside 50s, with Fremantle’s engine room led by Caleb Serong and Andrew Brayshaw taking control. Injuries to Jeremy McGovern and the tactical reshuffling of key players highlighted a tough day for the Eagles, while Ryan Maric stood tall in defence with 28 touches and eight marks.

What it means for the Eagles: Saturday’s clash with Fremantle presents a massive opportunity for the Eagles to make a statement. West Coast will be determined to turn the tables and produce a fiercely competitive effort after a disappointing RAC Derby earlier in the year. A win would not only be arguably the biggest upset in RAC Derby history, it would also reward the group’s continued growth and effort under Andrew McQualter. As the season edges towards its final stages, this showdown is a chance for the Eagles to rise to the occasion, deliver a spirited four-quarter performance, and take a significant step forward in their development.

The stat: The Derby ledger is tight, with West Coast holding a slight edge at 33 wins to Fremantle’s 27, while the battle at Optus Stadium is dead even at seven wins apiece from 14 encounters.

The match-up:  Rueben Ginbey v Patrick Voss

The clash between Fremantle key forward Patrick Voss and West Coast defender Reuben Ginbey looms as a crucial battle in Saturday’s Derby. Voss has emerged as a powerful target inside 50 with strong leading patterns and scoreboard impact, and is coming off a six-goal match-winning display against Collingwood, while Ginbey has adapted impressively to a defensive role, using his strength, athleticism and intercept ability to shut down dangerous forwards. If Ginbey can limit Voss’s influence and generate rebound from defence, it could swing momentum West Coast’s way.

It’s a big week for: Elijah Hewett

It’s a big week for Elijah Hewett as he returns to the side fresh from a week off and ready to make an impact in the high-pressure environment of a Derby. Known for his explosive power and ability to break lines, Hewett is a genuine barometer for the Eagles. His intensity and physical presence often setting the tone for those around him. With his burst from stoppage and fierce attack on the contest, he’ll be looking to come out firing and give West Coast an early edge against their cross-town rivals.

Big call: Jobe Shanahan will bag five majors in a standout performance.