West Coast is not dwelling on last year’s surprising victory over the Western Bulldogs, but coach Adam Simpson hopes to see a similar level of determination at Marvel Stadium on Easter Sunday.
In one of the notable upsets of the previous season, the Eagles secured a seven-point win in round 23 following a significant defeat in the RAC Derby. However, Simpson noted the distinctions between that team and the current era of the club, with 22 players on the list aged under 22.
“It’s essentially a different club now, a different era. While that game displayed a lot of spirit, I believe we’re now playing with a different kind of spirit, albeit for different reasons,” Simpson stated on Good Friday.
“The group dynamics have evolved. They’re embracing the transition to the next phase, whereas last year’s approach was more about resilience amidst the challenges facing the club at the time.
“We were coming off a tough loss last year as well, and I’m really proud of how they responded, but our current trajectory is different. I’d love to see the same level of energy and commitment, although the Bulldogs seem to have improved as well. It’ll be a challenging game, but we’re ready for it.”
Simpson confirmed that veteran Andrew Gaff and half-back Alex Witherden would play for the WAFL Eagles in their season opener against Swan Districts on Saturday. Draftee Harvey Johnston will travel to Melbourne as the emergency.
Ruckman Harry Barnett, who struggled against Giants’ Kieren Briggs in round two, will return to the WAFL team, while tall forward Jack Williams will make his season debut to support the Eagles’ attacking lineup.
Regarding Elijah Hewett’s foot injury requiring surgery, Simpson expressed hope for a mid-season return after the procedure, stating, “We’ve exhausted all other options, and surgery is now the last resort.
We’re optimistic about his recovery, and we anticipate he’ll be back in action after the mid-season bye.”
