Where and when: Optus Stadium, Friday, April 18, 4:10pm

TV: Live on 7 and 7plus in WA, nationally on Fox Footy and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)

Last time we met: West Coast 13.14 (92) defeated by Essendon 19.8 (122) at Marvel Stadium, round 16, 2024.

West Coast last faced the Bombers in round 16 last season, falling by 30 points at Marvel Stadium. It was a spirited performance from West Coast, pushing Essendon all the way before coming up short in the final quarter. Strong periods from the Eagles late in the first and third terms kept the game within reach, but they were unable to reign in the margin in the end. West Coast was guilty of allowing Essendon midfielders to slip forward into space with no direct opponent to compete with. Consistent performers Elliot Yeo and Liam Duggan were a regular presence, while Liam Ryan's ability to clear the ball out the front of the stoppage proved damaging, and Reuben Ginbey's work to minimise Zach Merrett's impact added an element of physicality.

What it means for the Eagles: West Coast continues to chase their first win of the season, and securing the four points against the Bombers will do wonders for this young and developing team and their confidence going forward. The group has been adapting to Andrew McQualter’s new game plan, and while there has been some good glimpses of progress, the structure has yet to come together for four quarters. Vice-captain Jeremy McGovern, experienced mid Tim Kelly, exciting youngster Elijah Hewett and big man Matt Flynn all return to the squad this week, bolstering stocks across all lines. 

The stat: Jack Graham laid a game-high nine tackles last week against Carlton, four more than any other player on the ground.

The match-up: Archer Reid v Zach Reid

It’s a big day for the Reid household, with brothers Archer and Zach facing off for the first time at AFL level. Keep an eye out for some sibling rivalry in West Coast’s forward line, with Archer (five games) expected to take it right to Zach (13 games) and secure the family bragging rights.

It’s a big week for: Tim Kelly

Tim Kelly returns to the lineup this week, after being omitted from the round five clash with Carlton. Kelly featured for the WAFL Eagles last Friday night, managing a respectable 20 touches, five tackles and a game-high 10 inside 50s. The 2023 John Worsfold medallist has struggled with form recently but has shown enough to be recalled by Andrew McQualter, and Kelly will be looking to have a big impact against the Dons.

Big call: Yet to convert a major in 2025, Elijah Hewett will kick multiple goals in front of the Eagles faithful on Friday afternoon.