Eagles Learn from Costly Third Quarter in Elimination Final
The Eagles suffered a harsh lesson as they were overwhelmed by the Blues in the third quarter of Saturday's elimination final at Ikon Park, facing wet and challenging conditions.
Carlton's Physicality and Intensity Make the Difference
West Coast coach Daisy Pearce highlighted Carlton's elevated physicality and intensity after halftime as the turning point. While the Eagles kept pace in the first half, the Blues then scored six unanswered goals to secure a 41-point victory.
"I just thought they lifted their physicality and intensity," Pearce said. "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."
Valuable Experience Gained
Pearce emphasized that this first finals appearance provides the team with critical learning opportunities and motivation to improve.
"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," she explained.
Looking Ahead
The coach also reflected on the importance of enduring losses for future 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."
The Eagles will use this tough match as a foundation for improvement next season.
Summary: The Eagles' tough loss highlighted the need for greater physicality and conditioning, offering valuable lessons to build on for future finals campaigns.