The return of raging bull Elliot Yeo into the midfield full-time has already transformed the West Coast engine room, according to star teammate Tim Kelly.
Yeo’s power breaking away from stoppages and defensive intensity have been noticeable in the Eagles’ two practice games, coming off a standout summer on the track.
The two-time John Worsfold medallist is so far reaping the rewards of an off-season trip to Aspetar sports medicine clinic in Qatar, and a fully fit Yeo looms as a major boost for West Coast in 2024.
“We’re a completely different midfield with him. His size and willingness to compete, he’s the full package,” Kelly said.
“He can do a little bit of everything. His pressure is elite when he doesn’t have the footy and he’s a handful for the opposition.
“Having him in the midfield makes everyone around him better.
“He’s done a hell of a lot of work in the off-season. I’m proud of him, everyone is, and hopefully that hard work can show and he can stay out on the field consistently because that’s what we want.”
Yeo laid nine tackles, won seven clearances and had 16 disposals in the AAMI Community Series clash with Adelaide, while reigning Club Champion Kelly was the Eagles’ best with 26 touches, seven clearances, as many tackles and a goal.
Importantly, the Eagles saw more signs of the identity they are chasing with an uptick in inside 50s and strong work around the ball after the Crows made a fast start.
“I think we’ve got what we needed out of the last two games, which has been important,” Kelly said.
“Chasing little wins with our style of play. I think we’ve seen some good signs. Obviously a lot to work on still.
“We want to score more and be more competitive and win games, so there’s a long road there but I feel like we’re on the right path.”
West Coast improved around clearances as the engine room adjusted following Crows ruck Reilly O’Brien’s early dominance, and won the tackle count 66-49.
“I think (tackling is) a focus every week. It’s pretty simple, if the opposition have got the ball you’ve got to get the ball back, you’ve got to be pretty good at tackling,” Kelly said.
“That’s all based around the style of play we’re chasing – we want to be good in the contest and you’re not always going to have the ball.
“It’s about being elite with the pressure you bring and your willingness to compete and get the ball back.
“Tackling is a big part of that.”
Meanwhile, the Eagles confirmed on Tuesday that former Geelong champion Harry Taylor had joined the club as a leadership consultant, with Kelly excited to have his ex-teammate on board.
“It feels like a lifetime ago I was starting out at the Cats and he was there,” Kelly said.
“I looked up to him. He has a lot of experience in the game and I think he will bring fresh ideas and a wealth of knowledge.
“He has a good understanding of the game and someone our players will be happy to gain a lot out of.”
