West Coast Eagles coach Adam Simpson remains optimistic following his team's 30-point loss to Essendon at Marvel Stadium on Sunday.
Run over in the final term, the Eagles were strong for long stretches under the dome but lacked the legs and x-factor to carry their momentum to an upset win away from home.
Now 16th on the ladder with three wins from 14, the season evening out closer to expectation for the Eagles, given their red-hot stretch of excitement with upset wins over Fremantle and Melbourne earlier this year.
Simpson is keen to get his number one draft pick, Harley Reid back into the side from suspension, as well as star mid Tim Kelly, though he's careful not to admit to a reliance on his guns.
Emphasising the development and growth he sees within the team, the Eagle coach said "We're chasing the long game here," in the post-match presser.
"I know three wins is not great for our supporters and our members.
"We're glass half-full."
One highlight was the return of co-captain Oscar Allen, who played his first game since round one following a knee injury. Allen's presence was felt immediately; 13 disposals, nine marks, and only two goals but from six scoring shots.
His inclusion to a forward line with Jake Waterman firing on all cylinders and Jack Darling holding his spot could raise some dilemmas for Simpson, trying to mangle three roosters in the same cage.
"It's good to see 'Ozzie' back," Simpson said.
"It's something we're going to have to look at to see if it's going to work for us, and whether we continue to do it or not, we'll keep working through that."
Liam Ryan also stepped up, producing an impressive 19 disposals and six clearances in an unfamiliar midfield role. His versatility is something Simpson is keen to explore further.
"He put a bit of speed on the ball and speed in the game, and obviously his skill helps change angles as well," Simpson noted.
The Eagles are set to welcome back several key players for a true blockbuster clash next week, including Tim Kelly and Dom Sheed, who have been sidelined with injuries. The most anticipated return is that of Harley Reid, who the entire footy world is excited to see against a young and in-form Hawks side at home.
"He's pretty keen," Simpson shared.
"I don't know how well he's handled it when you do your match sim on Thursday and he's in the other team. He's got to pay his dues while he's not playing, but we're looking forward to getting him back."
If anyone is looking to hear more from the West Coast coach ahead of an exciting clash, they'll get the chance during the week!