Stephen Hill is no stranger to playing in a Carlton Draught Derby and last year’s round 15 Ross Glendinning Medallist expects the heat to be on early.
 
Hill is looking forward to the challenge of taking on an in-form West Coast on Sunday at Domain Stadium.
 
“The derbies are always good to play in,” he said.
 
“There’s a big rivalry between the two West Australian clubs.
 
“They’re always a step up with intensity in the first couple of minutes, so I’m looking forward to another derby.”

Former Eagles insider to help Freo win ruck battle
 
With Josh Kennedy coming off a 10-goal haul for the Eagles, Hill believes an all-round team effort will be needed to stop their key forward.
 
“They’ve got a lot of good players in their team,” Hill said.
 
“Obviously Kennedy is one that we’re going to have to help support probably ‘Woosh’ (Luke McPharlin), who’s going to play on him.

McPharlin ready for Kennedy duel
 
“Hopefully we can stop them in the midfield as well.
 
“(Matt) Priddis and the others with their clearance work, it’s going to be a tough battle.”
 
Hill had an excellent game in Freo’s 44-point win over Geelong, with 29 possessions, 10 inside 50’s and two goals.
 
The modest midfielder said his performance was just one in an all-round team effort.
 
“I’m just happy I could play my role for the team,” he said.
 
“I think pretty much everyone across the whole team played their role and it was a really good win.”
 
Freo takes on West Coast in the Carlton Draught Derby on Sunday 19 April.

WIN tickets to Sunday's game
 
Bounce down is 2.40pm WST at Domain Stadium.