Where and when: Optus Stadium, Sunday, May 2, 2.40pm (AWST)

TV: Live on 7, Fox Footy and Kayo

Last time we met: Fremantle 5.2 (32) def. by West Coast 9.8 (62) at Optus Stadium, round seven, 2020.

The crosstown rivals met in the corresponding round last year upon their return from the Queensland hubs and West Coast had the better of a grinding contest, extending its RAC Derby streak to a record 10 victories in the process. Superstar forward Josh Kennedy saluted in game 250, booting four goals and claiming the Glendinning-Allan Medal for an equal club-best third time.

What it means for the Eagles: Some tough reviews followed the 97-point belting from Geelong last Saturday and while the players’ pride was dented the Eagles also slipped outside the top eight with a 3-3 record. A response is expected, and needed, to get the season back on track. That’s not to mention the fact it is also an RAC Derby and Shannon Hurn’s record-breaking game in blue and gold, so there is a bit to play for.

The stat: West Coast leads the overall RAC Derby head-to-head record 31-20.

The match-up: Nic Naitanui v Sean Darcy

Without prime movers Luke Shuey and Elliot Yeo, and with several others well below their best, West Coast’s midfield was overrun by Geelong and the Eagles will face another in-form engine room led by Nat Fyfe and veteran David Mundy in the derby. Given the firepower in attack, West Coast should have the arsenal to worry Freo provided the midfield battle is even, and Naitanui’s ability to get first hands on the football in the ruck before following up at ground level will be pivotal to the outcome.

It’s a big week for: Shannon Hurn

He has never been one to seek the spotlight but the 2018 premiership skipper and two-time All Australian has received due recognition this week ahead of his 291st appearance for West Coast, taking him past Dean Cox as the club’s games record holder. Returning from a soleus strain, the Angaston product would love nothing more than a team performance and fourth win for the season.

Big call: The milestone man was a (relatively) prolific goalkicker in his early years but hasn’t booted a major since his 50th career goal in round one, 2018 against Sydney. We are backing him to bring the pro-Eagles crowd to their feet with a trademark bomb from outside 50m on Sunday.