West Coast coach Andrew McQualter insists he feels no more pressure now than when he first took the job, as scrutiny intensifies on the rebuilding Eagles following a shocking loss to last-placed Richmond.
McQualter unfazed by mounting pressure
McQualter’s side suffered an 11-point defeat at Optus Stadium on Saturday against a Tigers outfit that came into the match winless and with 16 players on the injury list. The loss has frustrated sections of the Eagles' fan base, with McQualter now having overseen just three wins from 31 games since taking charge ahead of the 2025 season.
Speaking on 7NEWS on Monday night, McQualter said he had “felt the heat from day one in the job”.
“This is what it comes with, the territory. I understand how it works,” McQualter said. “We’re incredibly aligned in what we’re trying to build here and we’re confident we’re on the right track.
“I think we’re all frustrated that we didn’t win the game of football. We’re in a very similar position to Richmond, both incredibly young squads with some challenges on the injury front.
“We did a lot right in the game, we had 64 inside-50 entries and put ourselves in a position to win, but we’re an outcome-based industry. We know we’ve got to get the job done.”
Loss adds to fan frustration
The defeat came in front of West Coast’s 2006 premiership team, who were at the ground as part of their 20-year reunion and were celebrated with a lap of honour at half-time. When asked if the celebrations added to supporter frustration, McQualter said he had not used the occasion to motivate his side.
“I think it was a great day for the football club, but we don’t want to be a team that plays on emotion,” he said. “We want to be able to front up, no matter the occasion.”
Edwards returns via WAFL
With the Eagles in desperate need of back-line reinforcements, Harry Edwards — who suffered two concussions within three weeks earlier this season — returned to the field through the WAFL on Saturday. McQualter said he was delighted to see Edwards back in action but was unsure if the 200cm key defender would be available for senior selection.
“He was on restricted minutes, so we’ll speak to our medical team early in the week and see what his availability is like to play AFL football,” he said.
