Dockers primed for finals despite loss while Eagles sweat on Harley tackle

Welcome to the Western Watercooler, where we digest the talking points from the weekend’s games – and the highlights, frustrations and silver linings WA footy fans can cling to as the season progresses.

The Dockers ended their regular season with a 37-point loss, the heaviest of the season, against the rampaging Carlton.

While they suffered their third defeat of the season, Fremantle had nothing to gain and clearly had one eye on finals - resting and managing players game-time.

West Coast were outplayed from start to finish by the Hawks and while there’s been improvement this season, the year fell away in disappointing circumstances in the back half.

Fremantle compiled a 23-game stretch which stands above all in their 32-years.

On top of this, and arguably the most important part, has been the health of the list.

Justin Longmuir has more often than not been able to choose close to his best side every week.

It’s built confidence in themselves, teammates and system - the year to date is proof.

Fremantle enter finals as flag favourites - a position they thoroughly deserve.

Injury and suspension were the two factors the Dockers were trying to avoid against the Blues.

Cox’s first-quarter setback is set to sideline him for Fremantle’s first final.

This contributed to the Dockers conceding their biggest score of the season, 118.

He only returned from multiple games with a knee issue recently while also missed games mid-year due to injury.

Jye Amiss, Sam Switkowski, Heath Chapman and Murphy Reid will all be ready for a qualifying final against Hawthorn.