West Coast coach Adam Simpson has got his team’s bad discipline and fundamentals under control after a third AFL loss in a row.
And he knows there is no place to hide as Richmond prepares to visit his Gold Coast hub for a Thursday night clash that the coach says will tell a lot about his group.
The Eagles (1-3) only scored six goals for the third consecutive game at Metricon Stadium on Saturday when they lost to Port Adelaide 13.11 (89) to 6.5 (41). After four laps, the power was the form.
Seasoned defender Will Schofield didn’t do his coach a favor and beat Port’s Zak Butters after Charlie Dixon scored the fourth of his six goals for the winners.
The 31-year-old was picked up and reported late in Jeremy McGovern’s (ankle) after McGovern missed the Brisbane loss last week due to a suspension.
“It’s not ideal,” said Simpson.
“We are usually better than that and our leaders have always led the way.
“That can be fixed whether it is frustration – we just expect better.
“We fought back, were in the game, forced the problem, which was gratifying, but then we were overrun.”
“There is no magical fairy dust that I can put on it. We just have to get to work.”
While Port suppressed the Eagles’ ball movement, Simpson said their execution and pressure in the top 50 needed to be improved.
“The way we move the ball complements other things. You have to get the ball in your front half and keep it there, and we don’t,” he said.
The tigers will fly north to play the Eagles at Metricon Stadium, with Simpson doing its best to avoid discomfort as their stroke drags on.
“It’s a five-day break against the Tigers, so bring the game up,” he said.
“It couldn’t be easier. We will find out more about ourselves in the coming weeks when we are ready for the fight.
“I definitely am and I think our players are too.”
©AAP2020
