West Coast Eagles superstar Ella Roberts labels Melbourne ‘gettable’ ahead of Demons battle

West Coast star Ella Roberts says Melbourne are no less “gettable” than any other side in AFLW as the Eagles prepare for a titanic Demons tussle.

Roberts and the Eagles produced their best start to a season in 2025, going 3-1 before dropping four points in the western derby in a seven-point defeat to Fremantle.

However, Roberts, who at just 20 is on track for her second All-Australian nod, said banking early wins had the group feeling they were a threat in any game.

Even against second-placed Melbourne on their home deck at Casey Fields.

“I think we go into every week thinking a win is gettable, especially with our form this year. Melbourne’s just the same,” she said.

“Obviously, Dais (coach Daisy Pearce) has played there and kind of knows a few little secrets we like to think. We know what their strengths are and we kind of want to do what we can to limit them as much as possible.

“We’re going to use our shape this week, and also Port (who upset them last week) were really good at their squeeze, so we’re just going to make sure Melbourne don’t get those easy handpasses or hit any easy targets.”

The Demons fell to their second defeat of the campaign against the Power last week, but Roberts is under no illusions of the task awaiting the Eagles.

However, the midfield ball magnet said if the young side could win, especially while missing Liz McGrath, Lu Painter and Emma Swanson, they could defeat anyone.

“Melbourne has been the benchmark for a few years now, so I think we will take a lot out of this,” Roberts said.

“I think if we can get them, then we can get anyone. I think we’ve all got that kind of mentality. As much as it is a big game, it is at the same time just another game.”

West Coast are bracing for another wet-weather slog after battling wind and rain in the western derby, but Roberts faces an added hurdle.

The youngster often cops extra attention around stoppages, opposition teams at times even employing three players to dampen her influence.

“It’s been interesting (dealing with tags). I’ve liked it, it’s fun and a different challenge every week,” she said.

“My teammates have been great and really supportive for me. Every week before the game they’re asking me, ‘who’s going to come to you, I’ll get you with a block’, or something like that.”

Roberts also highlighted the work and development of teammate Courtney Rowley as an indicator of overall engine room improvements.

The pair played together in the WAFLW for Peel Thunder before being drafted to the Eagles a year apart.

“I think Courtney was always going to be a gun,” Roberts said.

“Even at Peel Thunder, she was always just a step above. Her cleanness around the footy, and I think it’s awesome to see her coming into her skin.

“She’s had a few injuries, but she’s really confident at the moment with her football and it’s so good to see her getting rewarded with it.”