Where and when: Optus Stadium, Sunday, March 22, 3.10pm WST
TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Sports and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: North Melbourne 9.8 (62) defeated West Coast 6.16 (52) at Hands Oval, Round 14, 2025.
West Coast surrendered a final-quarter lead to lose by 10 points in Bunbury the last time these two teams met. The Eagles led by 18 points early in the fourth quarter before the Kangaroos lifted to boot the final three goals of the game and take the win. Young forward Jack Williams finally converted to give the Eagles their first goal 20 minutes into the second quarter and from their 34th inside 50. Their best period came early in the third term as Elijah Hewett, Liam Ryan and Williams all took chances, with Tom Cole later kicking just the fifth goal of his career when he launched a 50m set shot. Full-back Harry Edwards could hold his head high, keeping gun Kangaroos spearhead Nick Larkey goalless and regularly intercepting North's attacking thrusts in arguably his best career performance.
What it means for the Eagles:
Following a tough start to the 2026 campaign last week against the Suns, West Coast will have taken plenty out of that game, the second half in particular, and put those learnings in place to take on North this weekend. In what is the Eagles’ first home game of the season, the club will celebrate Appreciation Round, an opportunity to honour the loyalty and passion of Eagles members and fans, acknowledging their steadfast support and showcasing the club's appreciation for their unwavering commitment. The team will be looking to put on a good show for the Eagle’s faithful and secure their first win of the season on their home turf.
The stat: Jack Darling returns to Optus Stadium where he’s kicked 148 career goals and fittingly faces the club he debuted against back in 2011, sharing that first outing with fellow debutant Andrew Gaff.
The match-up: Matt Flynn v Tristan Xerri
A crucial contest awaits in the middle on Sunday as Matt Flynn locks horns with North Melbourne big man Tristan Xerri. Flynn has quickly settled into West Coast’s engine room, using his mobility, clean ruck craft and follow‑up work at ground level to give the Eagles a competitive edge around stoppage. He’ll be challenged by Xerri, who is a combative, physical ruck who excels at directing hit outs, a Roo who’s carved out a special place with North fans through his on‑field presence. With both sides leaning on clearance dominance, the ruckman who gains the early edge, in the air or at ground level, will go a long way to shaping the midfield battle
It’s a big week for: Liam Baker
Newly appointed co-captain Liam Baker watched his team’s season-opener from the sidelines last week, serving a one-game suspension that was issued following the final game of last season. In his second year in the blue and gold, Baker has been a strong voice of leadership for this youthful Eagles side, and having him back out there in front of the home fans will be a big boost for the boys.
Big call: Second gamer and No.1 draft pick Willem Duursma will kick the first goal of the game – his first in the League – and will finish with 20+ disposals.
