West Coast coach Andrew McQualter is plotting how to stop damaging star Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera’s influence when the Eagles fly west to take on St Kilda on Sunday.
Wanganeen-Milera looms as a danger man alongside ruck duo Tom De Koning and Rowan Marshall – plus ex-Eagles premiership hero Liam ‘Flyin’ Ryan – in the ANZAC Round clash.
Saints coach Ross Lyon has regularly shifted Wanganeen-Milera around the field in 2026 and he is averaging nearly 25 disposals, four clearances and a goal per game.
“He’s a special player and they do try and use him all over the field wherever they think he can influence the game the most,” McQualter said.
“No doubt we’ll have plans for him in each section of the ground. We have to be able to curb his influence because when he gets the game on his terms, run and carry, his ball use can really tear you apart.”
West Coast will come up against Ryan on Sunday for the first time since his trade to St Kilda, and will be wary of his match-turning ability.
“’Flyin’ is so well loved within our football club. Premiership player and he’s a great person but he is now on the opposition,” McQualter said.
“Knowing Liam he will have a laugh and a joke with a few players on the field but it will also be competitive.
“He’ll be trying to win for his team and we’ll be trying to stop him as much as we can as well.”
West Coast has options to tackle the Saints’ potent ruck combo, although forward-ruck Archer Reid is unavailable due to a knee injury.
Veteran forward Jamie Cripps has also come out of the line-up and will play WAFL against Swan Districts on Sunday as he searches to regain his best form.
“Pretty hard decision, if I’m being really honest,” McQualter said.
“’Crippa’ has been such a valuable contributor for our team for so long, but just a little bit down on the form the last couple of weeks.
“We’ve had some guys that have shown some good form down at the lower level at WAFL so we want to reward that.
“We’ve given ‘Crippa’ some clear instructions on what he needs to go away and work on and being the proud person he is I’m sure he will.”
McQualter confirmed rookie Fred Rodriguez would also play WAFL in his first appearance in blue and gold since he was drafted last November due to a foot injury.
