Key defender Sophie McDonald played with class and commitment in Saturday’s clash against Adelaide, with seven intercepts and three tackles showcasing her effect on the day.

At just 21 years of age, McDonald had the tough task of playing on one of Adelaide’s best in Erin Phillips and impressed across the game, quelling Phillips’ effect for a majority of the match, with the versatile forward managing just one goal in the first quarter.

Despite McDonald having just seven touches, three of them were contested possessions, and her kicking efficiency finished at 100%.

Evie Gooch (eight disposals, six intercepts) and Belinda Smith (seven disposals, four marks) also held down the fort in West Coast’s backline as Adelaide applied pressure with 36 inside 50s.