The WAFL Eagles secured a 12-point victory over West Perth on Saturday night, prevailing 15.12 (102) to 13.12 (90).

“After what felt like a long two weeks following a disappointing result against Perth, it was a really pleasing performance from the group against West Perth,” coach Kyal Horsley said.

“The game was a tight contest throughout the first half, with neither side able to gain any real ascendancy. At half-time, the scores were level, reflecting how evenly fought the match had been.

“In the second half, we were able to gain some momentum and establish control of the contest. Despite multiple challenges from West Perth, our group responded strongly and produced a mature performance.

“It was particularly impressive given the youth of the side, and we were able to hold firm and secure a 12-point victory.”

Top 3

Cooper Duff-Tytler

Cooper had a significant impact on the game, whether it was forward of the ball where he kicked four goals, or in the ruck where his tap work and follow up efforts were a real feature. What impressed most, however, was his team first attitude and selflessness. He consistently put the team ahead of himself and plays with a maturity and mindset well beyond his years.

Matt Flynn

Matt played with real presence and was the dominant player on the ground, setting the standard for those around him. He finished with 25 disposals, seven clearances, two goals and a game high 10 score involvements. It was a monster performance that showcased his ability to influence the contest in multiple ways.

Harper Banfield

Making his League debut, Harper could not have been more impressive. His work rate, tenacity around the contest and class with ball in hand all stood out. Combined with his team first mindset and the way he embraced our systems and values, it was an outstanding start to his League career.

AFL Listed Players

Clay Hall

Clay led the way on the inside with six clearances, six tackles and 13 contested possessions. He was also damaging on the outside, recording four inside 50s and five score involvements, while hitting the scoreboard with 1.1 in an impressive all-round midfield performance.

Lucca Grego

Grego provided strong rebound from the back half all night with his run and carry proving crucial. He also produced several important moments in the final quarter when West Perth were pressing, including two critical spoils that prevented scoring opportunities and helped preserve our lead.

Tom Gross

Gross returned to his dangerous best in the forward half. He troubled West Perth's defenders throughout the night and was a constant threat, finishing with a game high equalling 10 score involvements to go with 1.2.

Matt Owies

Matt Owies leadership and class were again on display in the forward half. He continually supported those around him while also impacting the scoreboard, finishing with 2.2. Remarkably, every one of his possessions resulted in a score for the team.

Harry Schoenberg

His intensity and ferocity around the contest were evident all game. His ability to read the play, win the ball first and get into offence disrupted West Perth's defensive structures. As is often the case, when Harry got the ball, good things happened for the team.

Fin Macrae

Another strong performance from Fin. His work on the inside was a standout, consistently putting teammates into time and space with his awareness and clean handball use. He complemented that with a strong transition game, finishing with 14 handball receives.

Tyrell Dewar

Playing predominantly as a high forward, Dewar's transition running and class with ball in hand stood out. He finished with an impressive 20 disposals, nine score involvements and 1.2, highlighting his impact both in general play and on the scoreboard.

Elijah Hewett

Elijah worked tirelessly throughout the match. While he didn't accumulate his usual statistical numbers, he showed his class whenever he had the ball, with 50% of his possessions resulting in scores for the team. It was another example of the impact he has on games.

Tylah Williams

Tylah showcased his speed in both offence and defence was damaging all night. He consistently created turnovers in the forward half and used his pace to stretch West Perth's defence. It was pleasing to see him get on the end of our forward chains, ending the game with 15 disposals at 93% efficiency.

Jake Miles-Wrency

Jake continues to develop week by week. He finished with a game-high three intercept marks, highlighting the growth in his defensive craft, reading of the game and his aerial ability.

Fred Rodriguez

Fred showcased his versatility in defence, matching up on both tall and small opponents, whether deep or higher up the ground, and handled every challenge well. He also provided plenty of drive from the back half, recording 14 handball receives and six rebound 50s.

Josh Lindsay

Splitting his time between half back and the wing, Lindsay was managed through reduced minutes as he returned from injury. Despite that, he was still able to have a significant influence on the game, which is a testament to the hard work he has put in during his rehabilitation.