West Coast coach Adam Simpson says the ache is not over but regardless of his younger aspect producing considered one of its bravest shows in years of their eight-point AFL loss to St Kilda.
The lack of Tim Kelly and Luke Edwards earlier than Sunday’s match because of sickness meant West Coast had simply 23 match gamers to select from – every week after the staff crumpled to a 171-point loss to Sydney on the SCG.
Despite the massive obstacles and being pressured to area a aspect with seven youngsters, a courageous West Coast shot out to a shock 31-point lead in opposition to St Kilda in a show that was stuffed with spirit and combat.
The Saints ultimately wrested again management and went on to kick the final 4 objectives of the match to snare the 12.13 (85) to 12.5 (77) win.
But West Coast’s spirited show has raised hopes they are often aggressive for the rest of the season, and possibly even keep away from the wood spoon.
Their renewed vigour will probably be put to the check on Saturday once they confront Brisbane on the Gabba.
“I think there was an opportunity lost,” Simpson mentioned of the loss to St Kilda, which was West Coast’s thirteenth in a row.
“We had a couple of chances late to be within a kick. So we’re not high-fiving.
“But I believe everybody can respect a greater outcome and higher effort than (in opposition to Sydney).
“It does feel like we’ve had a win just being competitive, which is – I hate to say it – but I suppose it’s a step forward.
“We had been actually dissatisfied (in opposition to Sydney) and perceive the criticism, however the ache will not be over. So we have simply bought to maintain working onerous.”
Kelly is expected to return against the Lions, and star defender Jeremy McGovern could join him in the side in what would be a huge boost.
McGovern hasn’t played since tearing his hamstring in round three, and his expected return a fortnight ago was postponed after he pulled up sore from training.
“He’s fairly eager to play,” Simpson mentioned.
“It’s been 14 weeks, so I’m hoping he is accessible and let’s have a look at how we go.”
Forward Jack Darling is in some doubt after being subbed out against St Kilda with a sore right shoulder.
“It was a reluctant sub. I do not assume he was too completely happy about it, however he clearly could not compete to the extent,” Simpson mentioned.
“I believed he began very well, he is been below some duress as properly, so I believed for probably the most half he gave every thing.
“And then it was just too sore and we had we had to sub him.”
Simpson praised Luke Shuey for going “turbo” in opposition to the Saints, with the skipper tallying eight tackles alone within the first quarter on the way in which to twenty-eight disposals and eight clearances.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
