Where and when: Optus Stadium, Sunday, May 17, 4.15pm
TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA and New South Wales, nationally on Fox Footy and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: GWS 16.15 (111) defeated Waalitj Marawar 8.4 (52) at Optus Stadium, Round 17, 2025.
Greater Western Sydney’s trademark surge proved too strong when the sides last met at Optus Stadium, with the Giants racing to an early lead and never relenting on the way to a 59-point win. The Eagles showed patches of fight, with Reuben Ginbey solid in defence and Harley Reid battling hard through the midfield but were unable to contain GWS’s running power as the visitors broke the game open across the first three quarters.
What it means for the Eagles: A win over GWS this weekend would carry extra significance as the club celebrates Sir Doug Nicholls Round, honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and contributions to the game. Running out in a specially designed First Nations guernsey adds further meaning, with the design telling a powerful story of the club’s identity and connection to Country. The Eagles are showing improvement in some key areas and bringing all parts of their game together would be a positive sign and set up a hard-fought contest.
The stat: Liam Duggan’s 210th game this weekend will see him move ahead of two club greats - Quinten Lynch and John Worsfold in total number of games played for the club.
The match-up: Reuben Ginbey v Aaron Cadman
Relentless defender Reuben Ginbey takes on one of the competition’s emerging key forwards in former No.1 draft pick Aaron Cadman. Ginbey’s strength, composure and willingness to compete will be tested against Cadman's aerial threat, agility and goalkicking threat (10 in four games this season). Ginbey has built a reputation for taking on every challenge and competing hard regardless of opponent, and his ability to nullify Cadman's influence could prove pivotal in shaping the contest.
It’s a big week for: Tim Kelly and Malakai Champion
Sir Doug Nicholls Round holds special significance for Waalitj Marawar’s First Nations players. Representing his culture and community, Kelly will run out at Optus Stadium in a guernsey rich in meaning, celebrating the connection between the club, country and people, while the experienced midfielder will look to lead from the front on a night that honours his culture. Alongside him, young forward Malakai Champion continues to build his career at AFL level, embracing the opportunity to represent his culture on the big stage and add to his growing impact within the side.
Big call: Tim Kelly to rack up 10 score involvements and 30+ disposals in a standout Sir Doug Nicholls round performance.
