Match Report – Eagles dominate Demons in battle of LathlainSunday, August 1, 2021 - 11:06 AM - by Breanna Redhead

It may have been a bottom of the ladder clash, but the West Coast Eagles proved themselves the kings of Mineral Resources Park, defeating neighbouring club Perth Demons 15.9 (99) to 6.7 (43) on Saturday.

The win marks the side’s fourth win in the past six rounds, a vast improvement from their beginning to the season. 

The victory was also enough for them to get off the bottom of the ladder leaving Perth in the wooden spoon position following their tenth consecutive loss since last beating West Perth back in round 8.

A strong start from the blue and gold left the Demons shell shocked, but they recovered and fought to the final siren, running the Eagles ragged towards the end despite the loss.

The game belonged to seasoned Eagles talent, Nathan Vardy, Jordan Busher and Jarrod Garlett who collectively made nine goals across the day and were strong all-rounders for the match.

A sluggish start from Perth who, despite a near equal possession count, failed to transition the ball from the Eagle’s inside 50 (15-7).
Samuel Stubbs secured the only score for the side, who otherwise struggled to move the ball.

West Coast demonstrated their class, dominating the opening term 5.1. The young Eagles midfield dominating possession around the ground.
Garlett had a notable term, kicking two goals for the side, meanwhile marvellous ball work from Vardy showed his AFL experience, snapping the ball through the right-hand goals, taking advantage of the wind at a sharp angle to score an impressive major for the Eagles.

Despite nabbing a quick behind to open the second quarter, Perth struggled to make a comeback. Their lack of forwards and constant stoppages left little to be desired for the side inside 50.

Kasey Nicholas brought late joy to Perth fans, getting ahead of the ball to claim a goal dead in front of the sticks, a much-needed motivator for the Demons.

West Coast extended their lead with another 6.3, Jordan Busher kicking another 2 goals while Vardy added 1.1 to his total for the day.
Brent Edmonds redeemed the quarter for the Demons in its final moments, kicking the side’s third goal of the day finishing swift ball movement from Oscar Bird to Nicholas. Another quick behind from Jack Steel resulting in a 50-point deficit for the major break.

A low scoring third quarter showcased Perth’s improved pressure on the field, with only 3 behinds across the board in the first 20 minutes. 
Sam Stubbs once again stepped up for the Demons, breaking the goalless drought to kick his second major. A free kick from Mc Partland secured back-to-back goals for the squad to win them the quarter.

While they came off a winning term, it was not enough to stop the Eagles who took the win with another 3.3 in the final term to finish the day.
The game leaves Perth on the bottom of the ladder with only a few weeks remaining in the season to find a win and finish on a high.

Golden Boys
The Eagles win was ultimately in the hands of Nathan Vardy, Jordan Busher and Jarrod Garlett who collectively kicked 9.4 of the team’s total 15.9. Busher topped the scoreboard with 4.1. Vardy was also a dominant force in the ruck with 38 hit-outs. 
 

Eagles fly up the ladder
West Coast have turned their season around in a matter of weeks, producing four wins over the last six rounds. The Eagles came into the competition with eight back-to-back losses with their ever rotating side but have come together to give the season a worthwhile end. Following today’s game they sit 9th on the ladder, pushing Perth to the bottom.

Demons left in the dirt
Another loss for Perth marks an unfortunate 10 straight losses for the side which drops them to the bottom of the league ladder. Perth’s last win came in round 8 when they defeated West Perth 48-38. Next week, the side will face off with the Royals, another low-ranking side in hopes to seal a victory before the season ends.

OPTUS WAFL PREMIERSHIP SEASON – ROUND 17

PERTH                1.0    3.2    5.5    6.7 (43)
WEST COAST EAGLES        5.1    11.4    12.6    15.9 (99)

PERTH: Goals – Stubbs 3; McPartland, Nicholas, Edmonds.
Best – Byrne, Avery, Nicholas, Stubbs, Taylor, Fisher, Davis.
WEST COAST EAGLES: Goals – Busher 4; Garlett 3; Vardy, Hug 2; Foley, Nelson, Brayshaw, Marlin.
Best – Witherden, Brander, Brayshaw, Nelson, Marlin, Busher, Foley.