MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 08: Sophie McKay of the Blues celebrates a goal during the 2025 AFLW First Elimination Final match between the Carlton Blues and the West Coast Eagles at Ikon Park on November 8, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos)
UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, the West Coast Eagles faced a devastating defeat against Carlton in their first-ever AFLW finals match on November 4, 2023. The Eagles’ aspirations for victory crumbled in a mere ten-minute blitz by the Blues, who exploded onto the field in the second half, scoring four goals in quick succession and ultimately winning the elimination final 60-19 at Ikon Park.
As the rain poured down and winds swirled, Carlton showcased their superior skill and strategy, transforming an eight-point half-time lead into a commanding 45-point advantage. The match, attended by 3,420 fans, marked a heartbreaking conclusion to the season for West Coast and the illustrious career of retiring star Dana Hooker.
In an electrifying start to the third quarter, Carlton’s Sophie McKay led the charge, netting two goals and assisting another, turning the tide decisively. McKay’s eight possessions were pivotal as the Blues capitalized on every opportunity. The ability of Carlton to maintain possession and convert chances left the Eagles struggling to keep pace.
Despite a spirited effort in the first half, where West Coast led in inside 50s at 10-8, they failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Ella Roberts faced challenges near goal, and multiple attempts to score fell short, leaving the Eagles trailing by a mere eight points at half-time. However, the turning point came as Carlton found their rhythm, dominating uncontested possessions and exploiting their opponents’ weaknesses.
West Coast’s fight continued into the fourth quarter, with Lucia Painter scoring the Eagles’ second and final goal, but the damage was already done. The young squad faced a harsh reality check as they experienced the stark difference between regular season play and the intensity of finals.
As the dust settles on this crushing defeat, all eyes turn to the future for West Coast. With emerging talent like Painter and Roberts, the team has the potential to rebuild and fight back stronger next season. However, the immediate aftermath leaves a lingering sense of disappointment and the weight of missed opportunities.
Fans and analysts alike are left to ponder what went wrong for the Eagles and how they can bounce back in the upcoming season. The emotional toll on the players, especially the departing Hooker, underscores the human element of this sporting saga, reminding everyone of the fierce competition and the dreams that come with it.
The Eagles’ loss is a critical moment in their history, marking both an end and a beginning. What remains to be seen is how this experience will shape the future of the West Coast Eagles as they regroup and prepare for another season in the AFLW.
Stay tuned for updates on player movements and offseason developments as the Eagles look to rise from this setback.
