Eagles Suffer Costly Third Quarter Against Blues
The Eagles struggled in the third quarter as the Blues dominated, resulting in a 41-point defeat in challenging wet conditions at Ikon Park. After an evenly matched first half, Carlton surged ahead by kicking six unanswered goals.
Key Factors Highlighted by West Coast Coach Daisy Pearce
Daisy Pearce credited Carlton's superior physicality and intensity for the shift in momentum during the elimination final.
"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 for the Eagles
Pearce emphasized the valuable experience gained from their first finals appearance and outlined plans for improvement in the 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."
She added that enduring losses is part of the journey to eventual 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
- The Eagles matched the Blues in the first half.
- Carlton dominated the third quarter with six consecutive goals.
- The match ended with a 41-point victory for Carlton.
- Conditions were wet and challenging at Ikon Park.
The Eagles' experience in this elimination final is expected to fuel their preparations and improvements for the upcoming season.
Author's Summary
The Eagles learned a tough but valuable lesson as Carlton’s physicality and intensity turned the game, highlighting areas for growth ahead of next season.