West Coast is embracing being in a tight battle for finals qualification but focusing on what they can control ahead of a tough challenge against Sydney in club stalwart Emma Swanson’s milestone game.

Speaking to media before flying east, coach Daisy Pearce reflected on the team’s growth and the opportunity to test themselves against one of the competition’s most in-form sides.

“Sydney have had some really good form this year,” Pearce said.

“They play an exciting brand of footy that presents plenty of challenges. We’re looking forward to travelling over there and competing against a quality opposition.”

The Swans boast individual stars like Chloe Molloy and first-year sensation Zippy Fish, but Pearce remains focused on her own team’s identity.

“We always have a look at the opposition, but 80 to 90 per cent of what we focus on is us and improving every opportunity we get,” Pearce said.

“Our contest work and team defence have been key pillars all season, and they’ll be crucial again this week.”

Swanson’s 75th AFLW game adds extra significance to the match, with Western and Pearce both paying tribute to her leadership and resilience.

“’Swanny’ wears her heart on her sleeve and is a big driver in the way she leads the club through her professionalism,” Western said.

Pearce echoed Western’s admiration for Swanson highlighting her resilience and leadership.

“She’s a physical, hard-working, proud player. Her game last week against Geelong really signified the type of person and player she is,” Pearce said.

“Her teammates are inspired by the way she goes about things.”

A history-making finals spot would be almost assured with victory over Sydney, and both Pearce and Western welcomed the heightened expectation.

The Eagles (6-4) sit sixth on the ladder ahead of the ninth-placed Swans (5-5) and will host eight-placed Carlton (6-4) in the final round next Friday night at Leederville.

“What a great position to be in,” Pearce said.

“It means people have expectations of us, and that’s exactly what we want.

“We’ve been practical, if we focus on playing our best footy and improving, the rest will look after itself.”

The Eagles are also preparing for a vocal Sydney crowd at Henson Park, something the team is excited about.

“Sydney have done a great job engaging their fans,” Pearce said.

“We look forward to playing in front of them.”