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Welcome to the Western Watercooler, where we digest the talking points from the weekend’s games – and the highlights, frustrations and silver linings WA footy fans can cling to as the season progresses.
It was fitting Bunbury’s Hands Oval was the scene for “hands down” the Dockers’ most complete performance under Justin Longmuir.
The 124-point thumping of the Kangaroos was Fremantle’s greatest winning margin in the club’s 32-year history.
And now they can look forward to a week off, with the bye capping a brilliant start to 2026.
Meanwhile – on the same day, no less – the Eagles didn’t just lose the match, but also their most consistent player to date this season.
Reuben Ginbey’s injury hurt more than the six-point defeat to Port Adelaide. More on that in a minute.
Fremantle Dockers
What went right? Everything.
If you wanted proof Fremantle were the side to beat this season, Saturday afternoon was it.
Every aspect of their game is in tip-top fashion.
They have the best defence in the competition, conceding only 68 points per game – almost 10 points fewer than Sydney.
Against North Melbourne, they didn’t give up a goal after half-time.
Their midfield is a mix of hard-nosed, contested ball beasts and match-winners.
They can hit the scoreboard, help control the different tempos of ball movement, while this depth is something the club has never previously had.
Their forward line is powerful, has the perfect mix of talls and smalls and is working in symphony.
They’ve passed 100 points in nine of their 13 matches, can score heavily and quickly while also share the load, not relying on one or two stars.
What went wrong? Nothing.
Silver lining? The bye.
The week off gives the Dockers the perfect chance to reset both mentally and physically.
Their mid-season review will make for great reading, the coaches no doubt going to work in finding ways to make small tweaks to ensure the momentum continues into the second half.
Caleb Serong, Brennan Cox and Matt Johnson are all expected to be available, so too Sean Darcy who returned 21 touches and 28 hit-outs in his second game back in the WAFL from injury.
The Dockers have won 12 straight games, a record for both themselves and cross town rivals, the Eagles.
Win against Geelong at home in Round 15 and they’ll be in clean air.
West Coast Eagles
What went right? Their final quarter.
With the game on the line, West Coast threw everything at Port.
The Eagles had 19 inside-50s to Port’s nine, but ultimately, their lack of polish really hurt them.
Jake Waterman, Malakai Champion and Tom Cole all missed getable set shots, as the Eagles could only manage two goals, six behinds for the term.
While Waterman had two opportunities go begging, the All Australian forward was one of West Coast’s best.
He finished with game-high stats in goals (three), score involvements (eight), marks, (11) and tackles inside fifty (three).
Waterman’s booted 28.34 this season.
If he can convert better, he’ll be at the top end of the Coleman Medal race.
What went wrong? Reuben Ginbey’s quad injury.
The 21-year-old defender entered the match just days after penning a contract extension after a brilliant start to 2026.
He was again winning another crucial match-up, this time against Mitch Georgiades, before succumbing to the setback which could end his season.
It leaves West Coast again struggling for key defenders with Harry Edwards already sidelined from another head hit.
Silver lining? Brandon Starcevich’s return on Saturday night.
The dual premiership Lion put a frustrating beginning to his time at the club behind him, running out for the first time in blue and gold.
He was strong, reliable and offered valuable experience.
This will only be more crucial in the absence of Ginbey.
The Eagles WAFL performance was another highlight.
Coming from behind to defeat ladder leaders Claremont will give the program a major boost.
Acting captain Elijah Hewett (21 touches, nine tackles) impressed, Tom Groos booted four goals, while mid-season draftee Oliver Francou had a game-high 26 touches and a stack of clearances.
Paddy Sweeney is a Nine News Perth sports presenter and journalist.From our partners
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