The West Coast Eagles will identify as Waalitj Marawar during Indigenous Round, meaning “Eagles of the West” in Noongar language, while Port Adelaide has adopted the Kaurna name Yartapuulti, meaning “the land surrounding the Port River”.
Where and when: Mineral Resources Park, Sunday, September 7, 3.05pm
Last time we met: Yartapuulti 7.7 (49) defeated Waalitj Marawar 5.6 (36), round six, 2024.
Waalitj Marawar made a fast start in their last clash with Yartapuulti at Mineral Resources Park, with early goals from Lauren Wakfer, Bella Lewis and Ella Roberts helping build a 19-point lead at quarter time. Roberts was outstanding throughout with a game-high 27 disposals, 11 marks and a goal. But Yartapuulti wrestled back momentum with five unanswered majors either side of half-time to take control. Despite Abbygail Bushby’s goal on the three-quarter time siren cutting the margin to single digits, Yartapuulti finished the stronger to seal a 13-point victory.
What it means for the Eagles: After pushing Yartapuulti all the way in their last meeting, Waalitj Marawar will be eager to turn the tables and claim a win this time around. Coming off a thrilling last-minute victory over Euro-Yroke (St Kilda), the team will be looking to ride that momentum and secure back-to-back wins to build consistency in their season. With the clash also marking the club’s home Indigenous Round game, a victory at Mineral Resources Park would be a special way to honour the occasion and continue the team’s growth.
The stat: Ella Roberts leads the AFLW in marks per game this season, averaging 6.7 marks per match, making her a key figure to watch in this weekend’s Indigenous round clash.
Oppo in focus: Matilda Scholz
Matilda Scholz is an elite ruck for Yartapuulti who combines high athleticism and mobility with strong midfield influence. The 20-year-old has been a key contributor already this season, consistently impacting games with her disposal efficiency, clearances, and defensive pressure. Scholz’s ability to drive the midfield and launch attacks makes her a player Waalitj Marawar will need to monitor closely. Containing her influence will be crucial to gain control of the midfield and generate scoring opportunities.
It’s a big week for: Ella Roberts
Star midfielder Ella Roberts will look to build on a standout performance in the last round, where she played a key role in West Coast’s thrilling last-minute win over Euro-Yroke. Roberts impressed with her composure, marking ability and influence around the contest, and she’ll be aiming to back up that form with another strong showing against Yartapuulti.
Big call: Midfield powerhouse Bella Lewis will dominate the contest, racking up 20+ disposals, laying a string of game-changing tackles, leading Waalitj Marawar to a commanding win over Yartapuulti.
