SO FAR THIS YEAR:

While it hasn’t been the season that last year’s premiership contenders had expected, the Eagles are still positioned to be a force to be reckoned with in the 2016 Finals Series. 

Currently sitting in 8th position with eight wins and five losses, the Eagles will be refreshed and coming into the game full of confidence, enjoying a week off following their big win against the Lions at the Gabba. It was one of a few wins away from home for West Coast, who have struggled on the road so far this year. 

However, the story is different this week, as they return to their fortress at Domain Stadium.

The Eagles have only lost one game at home so far this season, falling to the Crows in Round 12.

They will be without key ruckman Nic Naitanui, however, it is expected that Scott Lycett will return as their main man in the middle of the ground. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Andrew Gaff:

A key member of the Eagles’ formidable midfield, Gaff has been consistent throughout the 2016 season. The midfielder has averaged just under 30 disposals per game. His ability to find space means that he and Priddis work together as a perfect inside/outside combination. He leads the Eagles for total number of disposals and sits second for inside 50s. 

Josh Kennedy:

Kennedy has continually proven to be a headache for opposition defenders in 2016. Not only is he capable of kicking big bags on game day, his height, movement and strong mark makes it even harder for the opposition to restrict his impact. Kennedy currently sits in second place on the AFL’s overall goal kicking list with 46 for the season and averages 3.5 goals per game. 

Matt Priddis:

Always a danger player, Priddis’ hard work rate around the contest is often the difference for the West Coast Eagles. The 2014 Brownlow Medallist has fought hard for the Eagles this season to average 27 disposals, seven clearances and three centre clearances per game. More impressive, however, is his pressure around the contest. Prides currently ranks third in the AFL for tackles and first overall for contested possessions  (16.8 per game).  

Scott Lycett:

Although Lycett is no certainty to return against the Bombers, Leuenberger should be preparing for a battle against the Eagles’ secondary ruck. In the absence of Naitanui, Lycett could prove to be the difference for the Eagles against the Bombers. He has averaged 17.1 hit-outs from 11 games this season. Lycett has also shown an ability to go forward and kick goals, adding an extra dimension to the already strong West Coast forward line. 

Shannon Hurn:

 Hurn is a leader on and off the field for the Eagles. The Captain has played a large role in making the Eagles’ hard to score against in recent times, organising his backline to form the infamous ‘Weagles Web’. His booming kick sees him lead the Eagles for rebound 50s, while he continues to average 17 disposals at an impressive 78.7% efficiency.