1988, May 23, West Australian, story and photo headlined ” David’s deep desire”. Photo of Mike Aitken who was not about to give away any free kicks to Craig Turley. In the story David O’Connell is desperate to play for the West Coast Eagles. His desire to sample VFL football drives him week after week as he takes the field for Claremont/ On Saturday, West Perth felt the brunt of his ambition as he and Mark Brayshaw comfortably carried the Tigers to a 67 point win at Claremont Oval. The effervescent O’Connell continued to shine when thrown onto the ball in the second half. ” I feel like I have contributed most weeks but not enough to get among the best players” said O’Connell who was recruited pre-season by the Eagles.
