AFLW: Ella Roberts, Jessica Rentsch make strong returns in West Coast Eagles draw with Western Bulldogs

West Coast are building strongly ahead of their season opener against Gold Coast after young guns Ella Roberts and Jessica Rentsch impressed in a hard-fought draw with Western Bulldogs. The star youngsters were among the Eagles’ best in the wet as they made their first appearances of the pre-season. The Eagles responded to their match simulation loss to Fremantle with three strong quarters of footy before being reeled in late to settle for a 28-all draw. Club champion Roberts was unavailable for the Dockers’ scratch match, while Rentsch returned to Victoria for a family matter ahead of playing against the Dogs. Ali Drennan also made a successful return from a shoulder injury, while West Coast blooded injury replacement pick-up Courtney Lindgren. Lindgren, who nabbed a goal after earning a holding-the-ball free kick, said the players “surprised” themselves by keeping the visitors goalless in the first half in positive signs for the campaign to come. “First half, we honestly surprised ourselves, I think,” Lindgren told club media. “Coming from the Fremantle scratchy to now, I think we’ve made a huge improvement in the one week. “Second half, I thought the Dogs really brought it to us. Obviously, the scoreboard showed 28-28. We’ve got a lot to work on, but I’m super proud of all the girls. “Room for improvement, we’ll really lock in on that, and we’re so keen for round one and to see what we can put out there.” The Eagles built a four-goal lead in the first half but couldn’t find their attacking spark after half-time as the Dogs slowly ground them down in the muddy conditions at Mineral Resources Park. West Coast still held a two-goal advantage with a quarter to play, but couldn’t hold on as Emma McDonald kicked the game leveller. West Coast are set for further reinforcements before the home-and-away season commences. First-choice midfielder Bella Lewis is expected back from an ankle complaint, while draftee defender Charlotte Riggs is in the mix after recovering from a broken wrist.