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Eagles rejoice in first AFLW win of 2021

Headshot of Cameron Newbold
Cameron NewboldAlbany Advertiser
Emma Swanson and Parris Laurie celebrate the Eagles round 5 win.
Camera IconEmma Swanson and Parris Laurie celebrate the Eagles round 5 win. Credit: Getty Images

West Coast recorded a thrilling victory over Gold Coast at Mineral Resources Park on Sunday, their first triumph of the 2021 AFLW season.

After a three-goal opening term, the Eagles controlled proceedings and appeared set for their first win of the season when Mikayla Bowen kicked truly midway through the fourth term.

A goal from a kick out of mid-air from Kalinda Howarth drew the Suns closer inside the final two minutes and then Jamie Stanton missed a late shot on goal for the visitors to peg the margin back to a point.

It was jubilant scenes on the final siren as the Eagles prevailed by the smallest possible margin. Great Southern duo Belinda Smith and Parris Laurie were important contributors in the 5.4 (34) to 4.9 (33) win.

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West Coast and Belinda Smith, far right, sing the team song after their thrilling win over the Gold Coast.
Camera IconWest Coast and Belinda Smith, far right, sing the team song after their thrilling win over the Gold Coast. Credit: Getty Images

Continuing her strong form in defence, Smith collected 17 disposals to go with three marks and six tackles.

The Pingrup product has been a stand-out in the back half in the first five rounds of the season. Laurie had a great battle with Suns counterpart Lauren Bella and finished with eight possessions, 16 hit-outs and two tackles.

Albany’s Sophie McDonald was dropped for the round-five clash.

The Eagles are now 12th on the ladder and face a red-hot Fremantle in the second AFLW derby of the season this Sunday.

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