West Coast Eagles' senior coach Daisy Pearce praised her team’s resilience and growing maturity in a performance that showcased both defensive grit and emerging forward firepower, to claim their fifth victory in round eight.
After a sluggish opening, the Eagles found their spark late in the first quarter, with Mikayla Western, Jess Rentsch, and Sarah Lakay leading the charge in contested moments that lifted their team.
“We were slow to get going and a bit reactive,” Pearce admitted.
“But to the team’s credit, they turned it around in the last five minutes of the quarter and that jolted us to life.”
From there, West Coast dominated the next three quarters, with Pearce highlighting the team’s ability to problem-solve and adapt mid-game as a key sign of growth.
“They’re clearer and clearer about what’s important to our game,” Pearce said.
“When it doesn’t start well, they know what to get back to. That deepened understanding is definitely growing.”
One standout was Jess Rentsch, whose physicality and versatility earned high praise.
“Rentsch defends like three people," Pearce said.
"Her speed, power, and hunger make her so important to how we want to play.”
The Eagles’ defensive effort was a highlight, particularly after conceding two early goals. From that point on, they locked down the Magpies’ attack and generated offensive opportunities from their pressure.
“Aside from the first 15 minutes, I thought the way we defended was outstanding," Pearce said.
"When we’re in that mindset, we seem to generate offence off the back of it.”
Up forward, the trio of Charlotte Riggs, Lauren Wakfer, and Amy Franklin combined for five goals, a promising sign for a team that has struggled with forward targets.
“It’s exciting, especially given how young they are,” Pearce said.
“Charlotte’s only in her sixth game, and Amy’s season is really building. Lauren’s versatility and fitness have been huge for us.”
While finals talk is beginning to swirl, Pearce remains focused on the next challenge.
“There’s a real appetite to improve,” Pearce said.
“Finals are a carrot, but our focus is on the little things and preparing for a big test against Adelaide this weekend.”
