PERTH, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 28: Daisy Pearce, Senior Coach of the Eagles celebrates with Lisa Steane of the Eagles after the win during the AFLW Round 7 match between West Coast Eagles and Greater Western Sydney Giants at Mineral Resources Park on September 28, 2025 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)
UPDATE: The West Coast Eagles secured a stunning 42-point victory over Greater Western Sydney, overcoming a flu outbreak that threatened their lineup just before the match. The game, held at Mineral Resources Park on October 15, 2023, marked a critical comeback for the Eagles, ending a two-game losing streak and propelling them back into the finals race with a record of four wins and three losses.
Coach Daisy Pearce praised her team’s resilience amid illness, which sidelined key players like Ali Drennan and Roxanne Roux just hours before the game. “We had a bit of flu go through and some were not named because they were sick,” Pearce said. “I love their maturity and resilience with that for a young group, to be able to ride the uncertainty and then go out and perform.”
The Eagles displayed remarkable teamwork, achieving their highest-ever score of 11.9 (75), while holding the Giants to just 5.3. Midfield standout Ella Roberts racked up 23 disposals and six clearances, despite battling a sore right elbow. Pearce noted Roberts’ strong performance, particularly in the first quarter, despite the challenges.
Veteran Dana Hooker made a significant impact in her first game since round two, excelling in a defensive role on the wing. “I thought she played her role really well, a disciplined, unrewarded role,” Pearce highlighted. “It’s important against the Giants, because if you collapse in, they’ll use it, and that’s when they look most damaging.”
Leading the scoreboard, Amy Franklin scored three goals, while Kellie Gibson contributed 2.3 in her milestone 50th game for the club. Pearce noted Gibson’s flair and energy, stating, “It was great to see her get some reward today in her 50th game.”
The Eagles now look ahead with renewed confidence as they pursue their maiden finals berth in the final five rounds of the home-and-away season. Fans are eager to see if this victory can spark a consistent run as the team battles through the remaining fixtures.
Stay tuned for further updates as the West Coast Eagles aim to capitalize on this momentum in their upcoming matches!
