Retired West Coast captain Luke Shuey says there’s some “flowers starting to blossom” on the wooden-spoon membership, however it stays to be seen whether or not Adam Simpson will probably be round to reap the bounty.
Shuey, Shannon Hurn and injured ruckman NIc Naitanui formally bowed out on Saturday night time in an emotion-charged 45-point loss to Adelaide at Optus Stadium.
The outcome ensured West Coast completed final on the ladder, handing them the prized No.1 decide within the nationwide draft and first crack at growth Victorian midfielder Harley Reid.
Simpson’s future would be the hottest of speaking factors within the coming days, with the 2018 premiership coach going through the chop regardless of having two extra years to run on his contract.
West Coast’s board have remained silent over the previous fortnight, with opinions cut up on whether or not Simpson will probably be stored on.
Players and followers have been vocal of their help of Simpson, with Shuey filled with reward for the 47-year-old.
“The resilience that he’s shown this year for us and every week – as much as the external noise has been a bit silly at times – it’s been about what do I need to do as a coach to get the best out of my playing group,” Shuey mentioned.
“The players have certainly recognised that.”
West Coast have gained simply 5 video games over the previous two years.
Five of their losses this season have been in extra of 100 factors, with the worst of the lot a 171-point defeat to Sydney in spherical 15.
But late-season wins over the Kangaroos and Bulldogs – mixed with combating efforts towards St Kilda, Essendon and Adelaide – have raised hopes the worst of West Coast’s rebuild is now behind them.
The improvement of the likes of Brady Hough, Reuben Ginbey, Elijah Hewett, Noah Long, Campbell Chesser and ruckman Bailey Williams have been uncommon positives for West Coast this 12 months.
Shuey has religion that the staff will be capable of produce a swift rebound.
“I’m really optimistic about how quickly things can turn and what these young boys are going to do,” Shuey mentioned.
“I think there’s probably seven or eight guys on our list now who are going to play a lot of footy for the club.
“You can lock that in and I’m wanting ahead to sitting again and watching them.
“There’s some flowers starting to blossom there and I can’t wait to see them do their thing.”
Simpson praised the affect of premiership heroes Shuey and Hurn, in addition to star ruckman Naitanui.
“These two men (Hurn and Shuey) have led this club for the majority of my time here, so there’s a lifelong bond I’ll have with these guys that I’m really looking forward to sharing with in the future,” Simpson mentioned.
“It’s the end of an era, it puts a full stop on it really along with Nic, who while (he wasn’t part of) the premiership, has had the same influence on the club.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
