The West Coast Eagles will draw on the support of their passionate blue and gold fanbase in search of a drought-breaking victory against North Melbourne, coach Adam Simpson says.
Both teams enter the clash on the back of 16-game losing streaks, with the bottom-placed Eagles one victory behind the Kangaroos, owing to a five-point loss in the corresponding fixture in round one at Marvel Stadium.
But back at home where some of the team’s better performances have come recently – especially from the exciting next generation of youngsters - West Coast is determined to start faster and notch a second triumph for the season.
“We’re trying to win every game and – I’ve said this before – I feel like going into every game we’re a chance and when we travel it’s gone pretty early, that opportunity,” Simpson said.
“Even at home we’ve been jumped a few times as well.
“It’s having that belief and confidence you can win, that’s really hard to teach when you haven’t got evidence.
“Drawing on our leaders and how we can play, and then our fans and members and playing in front of a home crowd.
“There’s obvious advantage playing at home, that’s in any sport, so hopefully we can utilise that this week.”
The Eagles will be shorthanded in defence, with pillars Tom Barrass (back) and Jeremy McGovern (concussion protocols) unable to bolster the backline.
Barrass’ season is likely over due to a compressed fracture, leaving former skipper Shannon Hurn, youngster Rhett Bazzo and potentially spearhead Oscar Allen to combat North star Nick Larkey.
Larkey has booted 48 goals this season to sit third in the Coleman Medal race, and has bagged six goals in his past two clashes with the Eagles.
The Kangaroos have been competitive under interim coach Brett Ratten, and only went down to sixth-placed St Kilda by eight points last round, with their young midfield brigade showing signs of a brighter future.
“They haven’t been too far off, North. They could’ve won that game on the weekend and they’ve probably had four of the last five games where they’ve been in the game late in the day,” Simpson said.
The Roos could also have the added motivation of playing for ex-skipper Jack ZIebell, who on Friday announced he would retire at season’s end.
Ziebell’s first season at North Melbourne coincided with Simpson’s last year at the Roos, with the now-Eagles coach handing over his No.7 guernsey when he hung up the boots at the end of 2009.
“I remember giving my jumper number to Ziebell back in the day, so that’s how old he is or young I am,” Simpson quipped.
“I saw something in him the first day he got to the club and was really hoping he could take over the number, which I don’t know if he wanted to or not, but he did.
“He’s had a fantastic career and really proud of what he’s done.”
