Last time we met: Carlton 6.6 (42) defeated West Coast 3.4 (22), round 12, 2025
In a high-stakes clash to close out the regular season last Friday evening, West Coast fell to Carlton by 20 points in wet and windy conditions at Sullivan Logistics Stadium. Despite leading early in the final term, the Eagles couldn’t hold off a late surge from the Blues, who kicked four unanswered goals to seal the win. Ella Roberts starred with a game-high 27 disposals, while Charlotte Riggs and Lucia Painter hit the scoreboard. Fortunately for West Coast, Essendon’s upset win over Sydney later that weekend secured the Eagles a spot in the finals. Setting up a rematch with Carlton in Saturday’s elimination final.
What it means for the Eagles: This Saturday marks a historic moment for West Coast, as the club prepares to play in its first-ever AFLW finals match. After a hard-fought end to the regular season, the Eagles have earned their place in the top eight and now face a familiar opponent in Carlton for a spot in the preliminary final. A win would not only extend their finals journey but also solidify their rise as a genuine contender in the competition. It’s a chance to turn heartbreak into triumph, reward the belief of their fans, and take another bold step forward in the club’s AFLW evolution.
The stat: West Coast won the clearance battle in last week’s clash, recording 26 clearances to Carlton’s 24, including six centre clearances. Their ability to win the ball at the source will be key again in Saturday’s rematch.
Oppo in focus: Abbie McKay
Co-captain Abbie McKay has been influential since her debut in 2019. Her natural ball-winning ability with sharp decision-making under pressure make her a constant threat. McKay played a pivotal role in last week’s win over the Eagles, collecting 24 disposals and six clearances. Her ability to intercept and launch counterattacks will be a key weapon for the Blues in the elimination final. West Coast will need to be mindful of her positioning and apply forward pressure to limit her impact and disrupt Carlton’s ball movement.
It's a big week for: Belinda Smith
Saturday’s elimination final against Carlton will be a milestone moment for veteran defender Belinda Smith, who is set to play her 75th AFLW game, and her first-ever finals appearance. A foundation player for West Coast’s AFLW program, Smith has been a steady presence in the backline since joining the club in 2020. Known for her leadership, composure and ability to mentor younger teammates, Smith’s experience will be invaluable as the Eagles step onto the finals stage for the first time.
Big call: Lucia Painter will kick the match-winning goal in the final minutes, etching her name into club history.
