The East Perth Royals have emphatically ended the West Coast Eagles' three-game winning streak in the WAFL, thrashing the Eagles by 45 points at Leederville Oval on Saturday.
Royals Dominate from the Start
East Perth came out firing, booting six goals to two in the opening term to set up a commanding 24-point lead at the first break. The Royals continued their dominance in the second quarter, adding another five majors while holding West Coast to just two behinds, extending the margin to 49 points by halftime.
The Eagles showed some fight after the main break, kicking three goals to two in the third term, but the damage was already done. East Perth sealed the win with a four-goal final quarter to run out 18.12 (120) to 10.15 (75) victors.
Key Performers
East Perth's midfield was superb, with former AFL-listed players leading the way. Ruckman Scott Jones dominated the hitouts, giving first use to onballers Aidan Lynch and Tom Medhat, who combined for 50 disposals and three goals. Forward Sasha Bailey booted four goals, while Hamish Brayshaw added three.
For West Coast, midfielder Xavier O'Neill was a shining light with 28 disposals and a goal, while ruckman Callum Jamieson worked hard against the odds. However, the Eagles struggled to contain East Perth's relentless pressure and precise ball movement.
Eagles' Winning Streak Snapped
The loss ends West Coast's three-game winning run, which had lifted them to sixth on the WAFL ladder. The Eagles now sit at 6-6 for the season, while East Perth consolidates their top-four spot with a 9-3 record.
West Coast will look to bounce back next week when they face Peel Thunder, while East Perth will aim to continue their charge towards finals when they take on Claremont.
