Where and when: People First Stadium, Sunday, March 15, 5.10pm (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: Gold Coast 20.16 (136) defeated West Coast 7.7 (49) at Optus Stadium, round 1, 2025.
Gold Coast flexed their muscles in the season opener at Optus Stadium, overpowering West Coast from the outset on their way to an 87‑point win. The Suns’ midfield trio of Noah Anderson, Matt Rowell and Touk Miller controlled the contest, feeding a forward line led by Ben King, who booted a career‑best six goals. Despite strong efforts from Jack Graham, Liam Baker, Brady Hough and Reuben Ginbey, the Eagles were under constant pressure as Gold Coast pushed their advantage at every break before sealing a 20.16 (136) to 7.7 (49) victory. Jake Waterman provided the main scoreboard spark for West Coast in an otherwise challenging outing.
What it means for the Eagles:
A strong start to the season carries real significance for a West Coast side determined to continue its growth and take meaningful steps forward in 2026. After a summer of development, connection and competition across the list, round one represents the first true test of how far the group has come and how well their pre-season standards can translate under real pressure. A positive opening performance would inject belief into a young squad, reinforce the game style Andrew McQualter and his coaching team have been building, and set a platform for the consistency they’ve been chasing. For a club eager to re-establish itself, beginning the year with intent, energy and four committed quarters isn’t just about banking early momentum, it’s about signalling the direction this team intends to go in the months ahead.
The stat: West Coast has claimed one win from the past three meetings with Gold Coast - a 10‑point victory at Optus Stadium in round 21, 2024.
The match-up: Jake Waterman v Sam Collins
One of the key battles to watch on Sunday will unfold inside West Coast’s forward 50, where Jake Waterman takes on Gold Coast defensive pillar Sam Collins. Waterman enters the season as a focal point in attack, renowned for his strong aerial presence, long-range finishing and ability to generate scoring opportunities even under pressure. Standing in his way is Collins, the Suns’ no‑nonsense interceptor whose strength, positioning and competitiveness make him one of the toughest match‑ups for any key forward. If Waterman can work Collins over on the lead and bring his trademark energy at the contest, it will go a long way towards helping West Coast generate the scoreboard pressure needed to unsettle the Suns’ defensive structure.
It’s a big week for: Jack Graham
It’s a big week for Jack Graham as he prepares to run out for his 150th AFL game, a milestone that reflects the toughness, consistency and competitive edge he has brought across his career. Since arriving at West Coast ahead of the 2025 season, Graham has quickly become a reliable presence through the midfield and a standard-setter with his pressure and team-first mindset. His contested work, leadership and ability to lift in big moments have made him a valuable stabiliser for a developing Eagles engine room. Reaching 150 games is a testament to his resilience and professionalism, and his milestone appearance will provide an added spark for teammates and fans as he leads the charge into round one.
The stat: Tom McCarthy announces his shift from half‑back to midfield in style, eclipsing his 31‑disposal debut with a career‑best performance.
