MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 12: Harley Reid of the Eagles looks dejected after a loss during the 2024 AFL Round 09 match between the Collingwood Magpies and the West Coast Eagles at Marvel Stadium on May 12, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos)
West Coast coach Adam Simpson emphasizes the imperative for the Eagles to avoid descending into despair following their crushing 66-point defeat against reigning premiers Collingwood, which was compounded by potential serious injuries to Jeremy McGovern and Jack Petruccelle.
The Eagles found themselves overwhelmed by an injury-plagued Collingwood side in the first half, conceding seven goals from center clearances before halftime, leaving them trailing by 55 points. Despite a valiant effort to stem the tide in the second half, injuries mounted for both teams, resulting in a final score of 15.13 (103) to 5.7 (37).
Petruccelle was forced out of the game in the first quarter with a minor syndesmosis injury, while McGovern was hospitalized due to suspected internal injuries following a heavy fall just before halftime. Simpson expressed uncertainty regarding the severity of the injuries but remained hopeful that Jake Waterman (concussion) and Elliot Yeo (groin) would be fit for the upcoming match against Melbourne.
However, Simpson cautioned against succumbing to self-pity, stressing the importance of resilience and maintaining forward momentum. He acknowledged the likelihood of both highs and lows in their developmental journey and emphasized the need to focus on recovery and preparation for the next challenge.
Reflecting on the absence of key players like Yeo, Simpson acknowledged the team’s reliance on such talents but also emphasized the importance of collective effort and adaptability. Despite the disappointing result, he highlighted the team’s resilience in the second half compared to past performances.
Looking ahead, Simpson identified reducing opposition inside 50 entries as a key area for improvement in the coming weeks.
