Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Harley Reid free kicks have become a growing focus for West Coast Eagles, with coach Andrew McQualter working closely with the young midfielder before Sunday’s clash with Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium.
Reid has conceded 155 free kicks across his first 55 AFL games, the most by any player at the same stage of a VFL/AFL career.
The issue comes during a major week for West Coast Eagles, following Elijah Hewett’s contract extension with West Coast Eagles as the club continues shaping its next core.
McQualter Wants Balance From Reid
Reid has already given away a league-high 60 free kicks this season, matching Karl Langdon’s 1992 West Coast Eagles club record.
The 2023 No.1 draft pick could pass that mark against Western Bulldogs, with his hard ball-winning style and willingness to take opponents on both contributing to the numbers.
“I love the way Harley competes,” Eagles coach Andrew McQualter said.
“I don’t love that he’s the most whistled player of all time, and we’re working really hard with Harley to find a balance with how competitive and how bullish he is at the contest, versus giving away free kicks.
“I think it comes a bit with experience, maturity, and he’s growing in spades in both those areas.”
Reid Still Central To Eagles Midfield
Reid conceded six free kicks against Adelaide Crows last week, including three holding-the-ball calls.
McQualter said West Coast Eagles remain pleased with Reid’s role in a midfield he has helped lead since arriving at the club.
“He’s been really the main player in our midfield for the last three years now,” McQualter said.
“He’s in a lot of contests. The whistle’s blown a few too many times than we would like, but we’ll keep working with him.”
Official AFL fixtures and match information are available through the Australian Football League.
Yeo Reaches Eagles Milestone
Elliot Yeo will play his 200th game for West Coast Eagles against Western Bulldogs.
The 32-year-old, who joined from Brisbane Lions, won the 2018 premiership, two All-Australian selections and two best-and-fairest awards with West Coast Eagles.
“As you get older, you can’t do everything you could do as a younger player,” McQualter said.
“But he still has such a critical role within our team. His ability to influence contest - not always win them - but influence is as good as anyone I’ve seen.”
