Great Southern trio eye Eagles AFLW opener

Great Southern trio Sophie McDonald, Parris Laurie and Belinda Smith are pressing their claims to be part of West Coast Eagles’ inaugural AFLW fixture in 10 days, with the trio featuring in an Eagles practice game last weekend.

Denmark junior Laurie and Pingrup’s Smith were recruited by the Eagles from Fremantle and Western Bulldogs respectively, while McDonald was snatched up from the WA under-18s program, where she starred at the national carnival last year.

The trio all played for the Eagles in their practice match against Richmond at the Swinburne Centre on Sunday, as they tried to push their case to be selected in the Eagles’ history- making round one team.

The Eagles, in their first season in the AFLW competition, will face Collingwood at Victoria Park on February 9.

The Tigers won the practice match, holding the Eagles to a single goal after half-time as they went on to win by 28 points.

Albany’s McDonald was particularly impressive in defence, with her spoiling and body work highlights in the back half.

Laurie was used as a ruck in the pre-season hit-out and Smith provided solid rebound from defence.

The Eagles women’s side had their season launch on Tuesday night and are now preparing for the round-one clash with the Magpies.