West Coast Eagles fans take to social media to celebrate first Optus Stadium win in nearly a year

West Coast fans are rejoicing at the club’s first win at Optus Stadium in nearly a year.

And while the final siren brought a mighty roar and the jubilant swinging of blue and gold scarves, the Eagles’ second win of the season also whipped social media into a frenzy.

On-field struggles amid off-field turmoil has made for an arduous season for fans, who were finally able to let loose after the 16.11 (107) to 14.13 (97) win over Essendon.

Since the preliminary final triumph of 2018, only Josh Kennedy’s late winner against Richmond last season has rivalled the buzz at an Eagles home game, and one happy fan said the standing ovation on the siren evoked memories of September triumphs in years gone by.

It was Kennedy again lifting the club to a famous win, kicking five goals in a fascinating duel with Peter Wright — at opposite ends of the ground.

Willie Rioli also starred with damaging forward-half touches and sparkling cameos in midfield, while Elliot Yeo’s return to half-back has seen him become one of their most important players again.

Fan-favourite Brady Hough, the most promising of the Eagles’ first-year players, brought the crowd to its feet with brave efforts and Liam Ryan’s return was met with massive cheers.

More than 40,000 Eagles were in the house to see the win, despite the later Friday night time-slot.