Tristan Xerri battle looms large for Matt Flynn after Kangaroos ruck star’s masterclass in Bunbury last year

When the AFL circus rolled into Bunbury for the first time last year, Tristan Xerri quickly assumed the role of ringmaster. In a scrappy affair where both North Melbourne and West Coast spurned plenty of chances, Xerri towered over Matt Flynn to ultimately lift his side over the line. It was a masterclass of 10 clearances, 12 hitouts to advantage and 22 disposals - to earn that afternoon’s top Brownlow and coaches’ votes - that is likely to be fresh in the minds of both men for this weekend’s rematch at Optus Stadium. Last year’s All-Australian squad member last weekend picked up where he left off in 2025 with a strong showing against Port Adelaide, while Flynn had his colours lowered as Gold Coast’s Jarrod Witts took advantage of the ruck rule tweaks to flex his muscles. Eagles football manager Gavin Bell backed Flynn to produce a strong response against Xerri in what looms as a pivotal match-up on Sunday. “The ruck rules - we’re really fortunate that Nic Naitanui is working with our ruckmen to help educate and to train them through that,” Bell said on SEN. “We’ve got some young developing rucks as well as Flynny, so how we go about Tristan is going to be a really great conversation for our match committee and our midfield and stoppage coaches. “There’s no doubt he’s a high-end quality player, and we need to do everything we can to nullify that because not only is he top flight, but his midfield is building into a pretty formidable force, too. “We’re really aware of the damage they can do at stoppage. Our guys will get to work and do whatever they can to limit their impact.” West Coast will also be banking on the return of Harry Edwards, who missed the season opener amid recovering from concussion. The key defender was the Eagles’ best player in last year’s Bunbury clash against the Roos, holding Nick Larkey goalless while racking up a career-best 13 intercept possessions. “We’ll work through the medical protocols (on Wednesday) and Friday, and all things being equal, he’ll be available to play,” Bell said of Edwards, who completed Wednesday’s training session. “I think he’ll be important with Nick Larkey and the likes and our old mate Jack Darling down there and so on that we bring someone in like Harry if he’s fit and available.”