Senior coach Adam Simpson is bracing for a tough challenge against Hawthorn and has reiterated he’s 'up for the fight' leading West Coast’s resurgence in coming seasons.
Sunday’s clash with the 14th-placed Hawks might not hold the significance of past contests between two of the last decade’s most successful clubs, but there is still plenty to gain in terms of MCG experience and momentum.
Hawthorn is coming off a convincing 32-point victory over Adelaide and the developing list under former Eagles assistant coach Sam Mitchell will challenge 17th-placed West Coast after a 63-point loss to Carlton at home.
“They play an exciting brand. They’ll take you on. They’re a young side and I reckon they’ve gone through their fair share of injuries as well, but at the moment they look pretty heathy,” Simpson said.
“They had a good win last week and played a pretty good brand.
“It’s going to be a challenge, but we’re looking forward to it.
“Getting back to the MCG for the second time in two or three weeks, really good experience for our younger players and hopefully we can put our best foot forward.”
Simpson confirmed the Eagles would boast champion forward Josh Kennedy in attack after his successful comeback from knee soreness – and 700th club goal - last week.
Fleet-footed Jamie Cripps (Health and Safety Protocols) will be tested on Friday before boarding the plane.
However, small forward Willie Rioli will be unavailable indefinitely following the tragic passing of his father, Willie Rioli Snr.
“Spoke to Willie briefly. It came as a real shock to everyone. Our heart goes out to him and his family. He’s heading back home,” Simpson said.
“We’ll give him all the time he needs to look after his family and himself. Tragic, really. Really sad for the club and the family.”
West Coast has put a line through star defender Jeremy McGovern (ribs) for the season but dual Club Champion Elliot Yeo (hamstring) could return next round against St Kilda.
Meanwhile, mid-season rookie recruit Jai Culley is edging closer to becoming the club’s 16th first-gamer this year.
“He’s got a mature-size body and he’s still working out WAFL football and AFL training. He’ll get a look at some stage this year,” Simpson said.
“He’s 194cm, he’s an inside mid with really good skill. Picking up the pace of the game is the thing every kid goes through.
“Whether they’re ready some of these younger players or not that is probably secondary at the moment, it’s more (about) opportunity.”
In a wide-ranging media conference, Simpson confirmed he would sit down with Shannon Hurn to discuss the in-form veteran’s playing future at season’s end.
The 2018 premiership coach also reiterated he is going nowhere and remains fully committed to turning the team’s fortunes around.
“We’ve got a lot on our plate, at the moment. Fully invested in what we’re doing,” Simpson said.
“There’ll be a time when I’m tapped on the shoulder, but at the moment I’m contracted, and I’m up for the fight.
“It’s going to be a long road for us and it would be silly to look sideways at the moment.
“It’s the last thing on my mind, honestly. There’s so much to do here.”
