WARRACKNABEAL footballer Matt Rosa played his 150th AFL match for West Coast Eagles against Fremantle on Saturday.
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Rosa, 27, collected 22 disposals and was among the Eagles’ best players, but his side fell agonisingly short in the 40th Western Derby.
The Dockers had extended their lead beyond four goals towards the end of the third quarter before the Eagles responded to hit the front at the 15-minute mark of the final term.
But the fourth-placed Dockers regained the lead to run out seven-point winners.
Rosa has been in superb form for the Eagles this season, with the midfielder averaging 25.1 disposals a game – up on his career average of 21.4.
The Wimmera product has played in 14 of the Eagles’ 15 games and collected a career-high 37 possessions in round 14 against St Kilda.
Rosa said last week he was proud to bring up the milestone and to earn life membership of the club.
“It’s a huge honour to become a life member of the footy club,” he said on Eagle Vision.
“There have been some ups and downs but I’ve really enjoyed my time at the footy club.”
Rosa was drafted by the Eagles with pick 29 in the 2004 National Draft and made his debut in round 17, 2005.
“Coming over from Victoria I wasn’t 100 per cent sure what to expect but I knew I was coming to a great club with a great reputation,” he said.
“As soon as you walk into the footy club you’ve got 40 mates who all look out for you and you spend most days together and get to do something you love.
“I’ve really enjoyed getting into the club, working hard and striving for success with the other boys.”
Rosa is reportedly close to signing a new deal with the Eagles.
He said he would like to finish his career with the club.
“I would definitely love to be a one-club player, so hopefully it works out that way,” he said.
“We’re working through it – my manager is handling that – but we’re making good progress and hopefully something comes of it soon.
“I’m really enjoying my time at the club – it’s probably the most I’ve enjoyed my footy for a long time. Victoria will always be home, but I love it in Perth.”