Eagles to play Tigers in pre-season match simulation, Magpies set for Gold Coast trip

Collingwood are set to face two teams on the same night in a throwback to the NAB Cup, while Andrew McQualter has a date with the Tigers. See all the pre-season match sim details here.

Andrew McQualter’s first structured match as coach of West Coast will be against his former side.

The Eagles will to play Richmond in pre-season match simulation on February 17 in Perth in a morning hit out.

It will be the first time McQualter will lead his new side into battle against an opposition. It will also pit premiership Tigers Liam Baker and Jack Graham against their former teammates after the pair joined West Coast.

McQualter served as Richmond’s interim head coach when Damien Hardwick stepped down midway through the 2023 season, finishing the year with a 7-6 record.

McQualter joined Melbourne’s coaching panel in 2024 under Simon Goodwin and won the Eagles’ job in late September after the club parted ways with Adam Simpson.

Andrew McQualter is set to face his former club in pre-season. Picture: Michael Klein

Collingwood will play Gold Coast and Brisbane on the same night. Picture: Getty Images

Fremantle’s participation in the All Stars clash has thrown up the unique scenario of Gold Coast, Brisbane and Collingwood all playing each other on February 20 at People First Stadium. The rules and duration of match simulations are up to the discretion of the clubs, but it’s believed that the Suns, Lions and Magpies will play two quarters against both teams.

Melbourne footy boss Alan Richardson confirmed on Tuesday that his side would play North Melbourne in match simulation on February 22. Carlton and St Kilda play the same weekend.

Originally published as Eagles to play Tigers in pre-season match simulation, Magpies set for Gold Coast trip