Where and when: Optus Stadium, Sunday, April 19, 3.10pm WST
TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Footy and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: Fremantle 18.18 (126) defeated West Coast 12.5 (77) at Optus Stadium, Round 20, 2025.
West Coast showed plenty of fight early and through the middle stages before Fremantle’s midfield depth and late surge proved decisive in Derby 61 at Optus Stadium. After staying within touch heading into the final term, the Dockers kicked four unanswered goals to pull clear and secure a 49-point win. Tim Kelly was influential with 26 disposals and two goals, while the Eagles’ young group competed strongly, highlighted by accurate finishing and a solid response against sustained pressure.
What it means for the Eagles:
A win over Fremantle on Sunday is about far more than the four points, it’s the ultimate shot at WA bragging rights, on home turf, in the game that always carries extra edge and emotion. With the Dockers flying and sitting second on the ladder off four straight wins, it’s a prime opportunity for West Coast to embrace the challenge, test themselves against one of the competition’s form sides, and make a statement in front of a packed sea of blue and gold.
The stat: West coast holds a narrow edge in The Western Derby rivalry, winning 33 of the 60 meetings to date. With the ledger at Optus Stadium locked at seven wins a piece.
The match-up: Reuben Ginbey v Josh Treacy
A key battle inside Fremantle’s forward 50 will see Reuben Ginbey take on in-form Dockers spearhead Josh Treacy in what shapes as a defining contest within the contest. Ginbey has relished increased responsibility across the opening rounds and will need to combine his competitiveness, positioning and aerial work to limit Treacy’s influence.
It’s a big week for: Milan Murdock
Milan returns to action after overcoming a hamstring injury sustained in round two and does so on one of the biggest stages of the season. The talented Eagle will make his Derby debut, as he looks to recapture the form he showed early in the season. It’s a timely opportunity for Murdock to build momentum and embrace the occasion in his first taste of Derby football.
Big call: Harley Reid tops his 3-goal derby debut haul with four goals and secures the Glendinning–Allan Medal.
