West Coast Eagles coach Andrew McQualter expressed confidence in forward Jake Waterman’s ability to overcome his recent goal-kicking struggles, commonly referred to as the yips. Waterman, who has been a significant marking target for the Eagles this season and currently ranks 11th in the Coleman Medal race with 28 goals, has faced challenges in converting his opportunities, registering 34 behinds and a conversion rate of just 45.2 percent from 62 shots. This inefficiency has cost the Eagles, particularly evident in their recent narrow one-goal loss to Port Adelaide, where Waterman contributed to the team’s six behinds in the final quarter. McQualter emphasized Waterman’s work ethic and past performance, highlighting that his ability to impact the game remains strong, and teammates, including co-captain Liam Duggan, believe his goal-kicking will improve.
Why It Matters
Jake Waterman was named an All-Australian in 2024 after an impressive season in which he kicked 58 goals. A shoulder reconstruction in 2025 hindered his subsequent season, but he has been working to regain his form in 2026. The current struggles in goal-kicking highlight the critical role accuracy plays in a forward’s performance, especially for a team like West Coast, which relies heavily on its key forwards for scoring. The dynamics of Waterman’s performance could significantly influence the Eagles’ playoff aspirations, as consistent scoring is essential for success in competitive leagues.
Want More Context? 🔎
