West Coast Eagles key defender Reuben Ginbey says the group is embracing the challenge ahead of Sunday’s Western Derby, backing the team to rise to the occasion against Fremantle at Optus Stadium.  

With the Battle of the West set to be played in front of a packed home crowd, Ginbey said the excitement around the playing group was building as several players prepare for their first taste of Derby football. 

“First Derby of the year, super exciting in front of our home fans,” Ginbey said. 

“We’re a young list and a lot of the boys haven’t played in a Derby. 

“The WA boys know how big of a rivalry it is and the history behind it, it’s always a special game and we’d love to play a competitive game of footy.” 

Ginbey believes the Eagles’ youthful profile can be a strength when the pressure ramps up, pointing to fearless performances from young players in past crosstown clashes.  

“That could definitely be our strong point, going in young and fearless,” Ginbey said. 

“We saw what Harley Reid did in his first Derby. 

“If we can get a couple of those performances out of the boys, but it’ll take a real team effort. 

“We know how good Fremantle are, but I’d back us in to play a good game of footy.” 

With Fremantle entering the clash among the competition’s pacesetters, Ginbey said the Eagles were motivated by the opportunity to test themselves against one of the league’s form sides. 

“We know how well they’ve been going, but we’ve played some quality footy this year as well,” Ginbey said. 

On a personal level, Ginbey is preparing to take on one of the competition’s most potent forward lines, with Fremantle boasting multiple inform tall targets. 

“Josh Treacy’s been in great form, so he could be a good matchup,” Ginbey said. 

“He’s got great hands and he’s been performing really well, so it’ll be a good challenge.” 

With fellow key defender Harry Edwards continuing his recovery in concussion protocols, Ginbey has shouldered increased responsibility across the opening rounds of the season, something he says he’s embraced. 

“I love the challenge,” Ginbey said. 

“Every team’s got a good forward or two, but it’s always a team performance. 

“I back myself in and if I'm playing against a good forward, it gives me a simple task, and I like to stick to it.   

“Good forwards are going to kick goals, that’s something you’ve got to accept, but I definitely try my hardest to shut them out of the game.” 

With the Battle of the West looming, Ginbey said the Eagles were ready to embrace the occasion. 

“I’m feeling good and really excited to get out there this weekend,” he said.  

“With our fans behind us at home, we can do some special things.”