Where and when: Marvel Stadium, Saturday, August 2, 11:20am (AWST)
TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Sports and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: Melbourne 16.12 (108) defeated West Coast 11.10 (76) at Optus Stadium, round 8, 2025.
Melbourne overpowered West Coast by 32 points in their last clash at Optus Stadium, with captain Max Gawn delivering one of his best performances to lead the Demons to victory. Despite trailing by six points at half-time, the visitors dominated stoppages in the second half, kicking their highest score of the season while Gawn amassed 35 disposals, 22 contested possessions, and 12 score involvements in a commanding display. West Coast showed glimpses of their best with a strong second-quarter burst and three goals apiece from Jake Waterman and Elijah Hewett. Ultimately the Eagles couldn’t match the Demons’ intensity after half-time.
What it means for the Eagles:
Saturday’s clash with Melbourne is a chance for the Eagles to respond after a disappointing RAC Derby defeat last weekend. With lessons still fresh from the loss to Fremantle, West Coast will be determined to produce a stronger, more consistent performance and continue building on the foundations laid under Andrew McQualter. Taking on the Demons presents a valuable opportunity for the emerging group to keep improving their form and hitting the 2025 finish line with momentum.
The stat: West Coast has enjoyed plenty of success against Melbourne over the years, winning 63 percent of their encounters. Making that their best winning percentage against any Victorian club.
The match-up: Brady Hough v Kysaiah Pickett
The battle between Brady Hough and Melbourne livewire Kysaiah Pickett shapes as a key match-up on Sunday. Pickett is a game-breaker with elite speed, forward pressure and goal sense, capable of turning a match in minutes if given space. Hough, who has taken on some of the game’s most dangerous forwards this season, will need to be sharp defensively while also looking to use his composure and clean ball use to launch counter-attacks. If Hough can contain Pickett’s influence and keep him quiet around goal, it could go a long way in helping the Eagles stay competitive against a potent Melbourne forward line.
It’s a big week for: Campbell Chesser
It’s a big week for Campbell Chesser as he returns to the AFL stage for the first time since round 24 last year. After a string of strong performances in the WAFL, the dynamic young Eagle has earned his spot back in the senior side and will be eager to make the most of his opportunity. Known for his speed, composure, and ability to carry the ball, Chesser adds valuable run and versatility to West Coast’s lineup. Having worked hard on his game during his time at WAFL level, he’ll be out to prove he belongs at the top level and make a meaningful impact against a high-quality Melbourne outfit.
Big call: Rising young gun Tom Gross will finish with the most disposals for West Coast, making a statement with his work rate as he continues to grow in confidence.
