While disappointed to lose, West Coast coach Adam Simpson described his team's ability to bring effort against St Kilda as "fantastic" after prioritising that part of the game following last week's 171-point loss to Sydney.

The Eagles led at every change but were reeled in late by the Saints in a gallant eight-point defeat at Optus Stadium.

"It does feel like we've had a win just being competitive, which I hate to say it, but I suppose it's a step forward," Simpson said. 

"When they play the way they did and showed everyone something, I'm glad everyone turned up before quarter-time.

"Our crowd have been hanging in there for so long and to give a bit of effort, we really appreciate the crowd today."

Simpson was also pleased with his team's ability to respond when challenged in the third quarter, with young midfielder Elijah Hewett providing a highlight when he hit a forward 50 contest at pace and snapped a terrific goal.

"I know Hewett did a lap of honor. Someone compared it to Warnie's 700th wicket, but that's great," Simpson said. 

"That's great excitement for our fans. You've got nine kids playing, seeing those guys produce little snippets of the future is fantastic and being in the game with five minutes to go, I thought we didn't roll over, but it was a challenge in the second half."

Simpson said star midfielder Tim Kelly and youngster Luke Edwards had been withdrawn pre-game because of the flu and should be available for next Saturday's clash against Brisbane at the Gabba.

Experienced defender Jeremy McGovern is also pushing to return from a hamstring injury, but key forward Jack Darling ended the match sore after being substituted with a shoulder injury.

"It was a reluctant sub, I don't think he was too happy about it, but he clearly couldn't compete to the level," Simpson said.

"I thought he started really well, he's been under some duress as well, so I thought for the most part he gave everything, and then it was just too sore and we had to sub him."