Where and when: MCG, Sunday, August 2, 1.10pm (11.10am AWST)
TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Footy and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)
Last time we met: Richmond 15.9 (99) defeated West Coast 13.10 (88) at Optus Stadium, round 8, 2026.
Richmond edged West Coast by 11 points when the teams last met in round eight at Optus Stadium, with the lead changing hands 14 times in a thrilling contest. The Eagles looked on track for victory after fighting back from a 21-point deficit and holding a late lead, but the Tigers finished strongly to claim the win. Tim Kelly, Harley Reid and Elliot Yeo were influential throughout while Tigers tall Noah Balta was the match-winner with three goals as a forward-ruck.
What it means for the Eagles: Sunday's clash presents another opportunity for West Coast to turn competitive performances into a result. The Eagles have pushed Richmond in their recent meetings but haven't been able to finish the job, suffering narrow losses in two of the past three contests. Victory at the MCG would be the first since 2021 and reward for progress the players have shown throughout the season.
The stat: West Coast generated 65 inside 50s to Richmond's 45 when the teams met earlier this season.
The match-up: Tim Kelly v Tim Taranto
A crucial battle through the midfield looms between two experienced ball-winners in Tim Kelly and Tim Taranto. Kelly has been one of West Coast's most consistent performers in recent weeks, using his class, composure and work rate to drive the Eagles around stoppages and into attack. Taranto remains Richmond's midfield engine, renowned for his contested ball-winning ability and relentless pressure around the contest. Both players thrive in tight situations and have the capacity to influence the game with their clearance work and metres gained.
It’s a big week for: Jack Graham
Jack Graham returns to the Eagles' line-up this weekend after being managed for the Western Derby and will face his former club for the second time this season. The experienced midfielder has been an important addition to West Coast's on-field leadership group in 2026, bringing toughness around the contest and valuable experience to a developing midfield. Graham shapes as a key figure against the Tigers, with his inside work and game knowledge set to be valuable as the Eagles look to secure the win.
Big call: The Eagles produce their best attacking showing of 2026 to overcome Richmond and score triple figures for the first time since round two.
