A thrilling display of talent and determination unfolded at Mineral Resources Park as the West Coast Eagles' intraclub match took center stage. The highly anticipated clash pitted teammates against each other, showcasing the depth and skill within the squad.
The Battle of Blue and White
In a highly spirited first quarter, the youthful White team, bolstered by WAFL Eagles players, took on the more experienced Blue side. The opening term was a tight contest, with the Whites matching their fancied opponents stride for stride. WAFL player Jack Walsh answered Jobe Shanahan's early goal for the Blues, setting the tone for an exciting battle.
But here's where it gets controversial... the Blue midfield, led by the dynamic trio of Harley Reid, Tom McCarthy, and the returning Elliot Yeo, quickly asserted their dominance. Their precise passing and potent forward line, spearheaded by the prodigious Cooper Duff-Tytler, proved to be a formidable combination. Duff-Tytler's three majors in the first quarter alone showcased his exceptional forward craft and ability to find space.
And this is the part most people miss... Malakai Champion's classy left-foot kick, setting up a goal for the Whites, demonstrated the team's resilience and ability to capitalize on opportunities. However, the Blues maintained their lead, with a score of 5.6 (36) to 2.1 (13) at the first break.
Unfortunately, a collision between Liam Duggan and Tom Gross ended Duggan's day prematurely, with concerns over a potential head injury.
New Faces, New Impressions
The second quarter saw several new faces shine, with Deven Robertson, Harry Schoenberg, and Fin Macrae leaving a lasting impression. Their talent and experience, acquired over the off-season, were on full display. Schoenberg, in particular, had a purple patch, while Robertson was a constant presence in the thick of the action.
The ex-Lion's precise ball movement inside 50 set up Harley Reid, who burst through traffic and fed Duff-Tytler for his fourth major. Reid's left-foot snap against the boundary line was a highlight, and the floodgates opened as Archer Reid and Jamie Cripps joined the scoring frenzy.
With Reuben Ginbey and Harry Edwards solidifying the defense, the Blues extended their lead to 10.13 (73) to 4.2 (26) at half-time. Jack Graham and Tom Gross also had to exit the clash due to hamstring scans.
Blue Dominance Continues
The third quarter saw the Blues continue their dominance, outscoring the Whites 7-0. Masterful Tim Kelly, leading the midfield, kept the footy flowing their way. One of the highlights was Kelly's sensational center clearance and three-handball passage, resulting in a brilliant 50m bomb kicked by Willem Duursma, the No.1 draft pick.
Schoenberg, Kelly, and Yeo all impressed with their touch and skill, showcasing the depth of talent within the squad. Despite the Whites' struggles, small forward Tylah Williams and Tyrell Dewar showed glimpses of brilliance, never giving up.
Defensive stalwart Tom Cole switched to the Blues and held his own, replacing Brandon Starcevich, who had a solid performance before finishing early.
Fatigue, Perseverance, and Exclamation Marks
In the final quarter, the players pushed through fatigue, determined to leave their mark. Clay Hall's expert play and emphatic finish set the tone, while Bo Allan's improved performance showcased the benefits of his off-season hard work.
Jamie Cripps, now in the White team, demonstrated his experience and nous, setting up teammates for goal-scoring opportunities. Harvey Johnston and Noah Long converted for the Whites, but the Blues responded with Archer Reid's two quick goals, set up by strong marks and McCarthy's tumbling punt.
Harley Reid's late burst of energy was an exciting sign, capping off his impressive preparation for the 2026 season. Left-footer Josh Lindsay was involved in every play, and Duff-Tytler's fifth major from a tough angle was a fitting end to the encounter.
Notable absentees included AFL Origin stars Jake Waterman and Liam Baker, along with Brady Hough, Bailey Williams (groin), and Elijah Hewett, who completed some on-ground training before the intraclub match. Hewett is nearing a return from a calf niggle, while Hough is building up to full training after an ankle injury. Key defensive recruit Tylar Young was also missing due to a recent shin injury.
Despite the absences, the intraclub match provided an exciting glimpse into the West Coast Eagles' depth and talent, leaving fans eager for the upcoming season.
