Eagles Face Tough Lesson in Elimination Final
The Eagles struggled in a costly third quarter, falling behind the Blues in a crucial elimination final at Ikon Park. After holding their own in the first half, the Eagles were overwhelmed as Carlton kicked six unanswered goals in the second half, resulting in a 41-point defeat under wet and harsh weather conditions.
Carlton’s Physicality Key to Victory
West Coast coach Daisy Pearce highlighted Carlton's physical intensity as the deciding factor in the match.
“I just thought they lifted their physicality and intensity. For a 15-minute period or so, we just get knocked off the ball a bit too easily. That's finals footy and it'll be a great lesson for us moving forward.”
Lessons and Future Plans
Pearce expressed optimism about the experience gained from the club’s first finals appearance and emphasized the need for improvements ahead of next season.
“We just go back to the drawing board, try and really narrow in on a couple of things that are going to give us big bang for buck next year. A good starting point will be more strength and conditioning in our fundamentals. Just more work ahead of us.”
Enduring Challenges Builds Success
Reflecting on the defeat, Pearce acknowledged the importance of enduring tough moments to achieve long-term success.
“That was the message coming into today. When you eventually get there and have success, it's these moments that make it more satisfying. You've got to endure losses like today and have experiences like today.”
Match Overview
- First half: Eagles matched the Blues
- Second half: Carlton scored six unanswered goals
- Final score difference: 41 points in favor of Carlton
- Conditions: Wet and miserable at Ikon Park
Author’s summary: The Eagles learned a harsh but valuable lesson from their first finals loss, with Coach Pearce focusing on physicality and fundamental improvements moving forward.