Western Derby 60: Fremantle Dockers and West Coast Eagles Clash in High-Stakes AFL Showdown
Image credits: AAP: Julian Smith
The Stage is Set
The western derby is one of the most highly anticipated events in the AFL calendar, and this year's encounter promises to be just as intense. Fremantle, touted as potential top-four material before the season, is under immense pressure to deliver after a disappointing start. The Dockers have lost six games in a row, including their final four games of 2024, and a loss on Sunday would see them crash to 0-3.
The West Coast Eagles, on the other hand, are looking to build on their improved performance against Brisbane. Despite losing, the Eagles showed significant improvement from their round one loss to the Suns, and coach Andrew McQualter will be hoping for another gutsy showing from his men.
Key Match-Ups and Players to Watch
The match-up between Bailey Williams and Luke Jackson is expected to be a highlight of the game. Williams, with a one-centimetre height advantage over Jackson, will be looking to make an impact, while Jackson's versatility and athleticism will make him a formidable opponent.
Other players to watch include Fremantle's star on-baller Caleb Serong, who will be looking to rediscover his best form after being tagged by the Swans' James Jordon last weekend. The Eagles' emerging tall forward Jack Williams will also be making his first appearance of the season, after working hard on the training track to break back into the 23.
- Key stats:
- The Eagles were plus-18 in groundball gets in the first half against Brisbane in round two, their best first half since 2015.
- Fremantle's Caleb Serong was awarded the Glendinning-Allan medal in the last encounter between the two teams, managing 32 touches and a goal.
- Players to watch:
- Isaiah Dudley, making his debut for the Dockers, will be looking to add some forward craft to the team.
- Bo Allan, the Eagles' prized WA recruit, will have to wait another week for his debut, after illness struck.
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