West Coast faced a stark reality after suffering a heavy 62-point defeat to Hawthorn, concluding their 2026 season on a disappointing note. The Hawks secured a 16.11 (107) to 6.9 (45) victory at Optus Stadium, falling just short of the percentage needed to surpass Brisbane for third place. Despite the win, Hawthorn will have to return to Perth in less than two weeks to face the unbeaten Fremantle in the finals. West Coast, now on an 11-game losing streak—tied for the third worst in club history—heads into the offseason with pressing questions regarding their rebuilding efforts. Jack Gunston celebrated his 300th match with five goals, while teammate Nick Watson contributed significantly despite heavy defensive pressure, showcasing his talent with a mark of the year contender.
Why It Matters
The defeat underscores the challenges facing West Coast as they transition through a rebuilding phase, highlighted by their worst season finish in years. The team’s 11-game losing streak raises concerns about the effectiveness of their current roster and coaching strategies. Meanwhile, Hawthorn’s performance illustrates their potential to challenge for higher placements in the finals, demonstrating resilience despite failing to meet percentage targets. The upcoming clash against Fremantle will be crucial for both teams as they aim to solidify their standings in the finals series.
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