While remarkable it’s not sustainable and nor is losing the inside 50 count by 19.
But what it did highlight was the merit and importance yesterday’s victory held especially when faced with personnel issues in the final term.
West Coasts’ leaders under the microscope
It’s been a week to forget for the Eagles co-captains.
Days of unwanted headlines and publicity followed Oscar Allen’s poorly timed coffee catch-up with Sam Mitchell.
After the embarrassing off-field episode, the need for on-field leadership was a must, undermanned facing a brutal assignment against GWS.
Yet, in the opening three minutes of yesterday’s thrashing, fellow skipper Liam Duggan was badly exposed, setting the tone for a forgetful afternoon.
Young Giant Darcy Jones received the ball on the wing, kicking into attack, finding his captain Toby Greene.
At this stage, 183-gamer Duggan was alongside 18-gamer Jones.
Then the speedy West Aussie continued to run, giving himself the chance to be involved in the play again.
A clever tap from Jake Stringer landed straight in Jones’ lap, resulting in the opening goal of the game while Duggan watched on 20 metres behind.
The 21-year-old, who grew up barracking for West Coast, turned in his best performance of his career, ending with two goals, 26 touches, seven tackles, six marks and 13 score involvements.
The play highlighted how damaging Jones’ run will be to GWS, while shining a spotlight on how Duggan wasn’t switched on early in the game.
Unlike his off-sider Allen, Duggan won’t call a snap press conference to apologise for his actions, but I get the feeling he’ll be feeling ashamed of his efforts when it’s game review time.
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