Dual Coleman medallist Josh Kennedy has booted seven goals to guide West Coast to a commanding 43-point season-opening AFL win over North Melbourne.
Three of Kennedy’s majors came during a dominant third quarter as the Eagles shook off a slow start and surged to a 21.10 (136) to 13.15 (93) victory at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
It was the new-look North Melbourne who looked the more dangerous side in the early going, especially when former Kangaroos star Drew Petrie went to the Eagles rooms with a hand injury.
Former Geelong big man Nathan Vardy also copped a niggle, forcing West Coast to improvise with Jack Darling and Jeremy McGovern in the ruck against the imposing Todd Goldstein.
The Kangaroos, who lost 1500 games of experience with the off-season departure of several key veterans, led by nine points at the first break and impressed with their speed and pressure.
But West Coast’s ruck duo soon returned and the Eagles kicked in to gear in the second quarter, sparked by three goals in quick succession from crafty veteran Mark LeCras.
The Eagles led by a goal at halftime and put the Kangaroos to the sword after the break, driven by a super effort from Kennedy.
The gun forward’s performance shows he is every chance of becoming the first player since Geelong legend Gary Ablett Sr to top the AFL’s goalkicking tally for a third straight year.
There was plenty to like for the Eagles, with a best-on-ground performance from Elliot Yeo (26 touches, two goals), suggesting he may be ready to live up to his considerable potential.
Star recruit Sam Mitchell – the oldest player to ever line up for West Coast, after his shock trade from Hawthorn – was also impressive for his new side.
The 34-year-old racked up 38 touches and looks set to make a big impact on an Eagles side firmly within their premiership window.
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