The West Coast Eagles squad can pack their bags and get ready for a Monday departure after a solid hit out completed with an extended period of match simulation at Mineral Resources Park last night.
With the exception of a heart flutter when star recruit Tim Kelly turned an ankle in the last quarter, the physical work out went without incident.
Kelly was in no discomfort as he left the ground and will join his teammates on the Gold Coast for the next month as this truncated AFL season kicks back to life.
Kelly had been a solid contributor throughout, while other good showings through the middle came from the usual suspects – captain Luke Shuey, powerhouse Elliot Yeo, energetic wingman Andrew Gaff and another classy left-footer Dom Sheed.
Experienced defenders Shannon Hurn, Jeremy McGovern and Tom Barrass did what they had to do, while Josh Kennedy and Liam Ryan starred up front.
Ryan copped a knock to the head in the early stages, but continued to play with great effect and hit the scoreboard consistently while also take a trade-mark ‘hanger’ deep into the game.
Brendon Ah Chee and Jarrod Brander did all they could to consolidate their positions in the team while the decision around the structure of the ruck was no clearer.
Nic Naitanui is a certain starter, but all of Tom Hickey, Nathan Vardy and Bailey Williams had good moments, giving the match committee much to ponder.
