Where and when: Optus Stadium, Sunday, August 10, 3.10pm (AWST)
TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Sports and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: Adelaide 19.14 (128) defeated West Coast 8.14 (62) at Optus Stadium, round 11, 2025.
Adelaide proved too strong for West Coast in their last encounter, running away with a 66-point win at Adelaide Oval. The Eagles trailed by just 17 points at half-time after a gritty second quarter, but a dominant third term from the Crows blew the game open. Jake Waterman booted three goals before a shoulder injury ended his day, while Tyler Brockman and Sandy Brock were among the bright sparks. Josh Rachele starred with five goals for the home side, and Jordan Dawson was influential with 27 disposals and two majors as Adelaide’s midfield took control after the main break.
What it means for the Eagles: Sunday’s clash with Adelaide is a special occasion for the West Coast Eagles, with the club set to honour three premiership heroes in front of the Optus Stadium faithful. Liam Duggan will celebrate his 200th game, while the match also serves as a farewell to recently retired stars Dom Sheed and Jeremy McGovern. As the second last home game of the season, it’s a chance for the Eagles to show fight and pride in their performance and give their loyal supporters, and some of their most decorated players, a moment to remember.
The stat: Since Adelaide joined the competition in 1991, West Coast and Adelaide have met 58 times, the Eagles hold a narrow edge with 31 wins to 27.
The match-up: Rueben Ginbey v Riley Thilthorpe
The potential battle between Reuben Ginbey and Adelaide’s Riley Thilthorpe shapes as a key contest on Sunday. Thilthorpe, an athletic tall, has kicked 48 goals this season and is coming off a strong performance against Hawthorn. Ginbey, known for his physicality and competitive edge, will be looking to nullify Thilthorpe’s aerial impact and provide rebound from defence. If he can limit Thilthorpe’s influence inside 50, it could go a long way in disrupting Adelaide’s forward structure.
It’s a big week for: Liam Duggan
It’s a big week for Liam Duggan as he prepares to run out for his 200th game in the blue and gold. A special milestone for a one-club player whose commitment, character and leadership have underpinned a remarkable journey. A premiership player and current co-captain, Duggan has been a consistent performer across half back and through the midfield since debuting in 2015. Known for his composure, elite kicking and team-first attitude, ‘Duggo’ has become a much-loved figure at West Coast. Sunday’s milestone at Optus Stadium is a chance for Duggan to reflect on his journey and lead by example once again in front of a proud home crowd.
Big call: Jobe Shanahan and Archer Reid will each kick career-best three goals in a game for the first time in a glimpse of the Eagles' bright future.
