West Coast interim Jarrad Schofield couldn't be prouder of prized pick Harley Reid following a fiery display of brash combativeness in the Eagles' 35-point Western Derby loss.
The match was littered with spotfires, primarily initiated by the young star, who was targeted at times by Docker mids on his way to a career-high night; collecting 29 disposals and 10 clearances.
"Loved it. Loved it. For a 19-year-old to be getting booed, to be getting, sort of flexed and man-handled by a strong side, they're concerned about him," Schofield reflected post-match.
"I ask the players to play on the edge. He was right on it."
"Close to 30 possessions, 450 metres gained, top clearance winner. Pretty good game."
"Come and tackle him. He's pretty strong for a 19-year-old. Takes two or three of them."
"So good on 'em for coming at him, because he's not taking a backward step, and we don't want him to take a backward step... really proud of his effort tonight."
Reid's performance was one of the few shining lights on an otherwise dour night for the Eagles, who once again failed to sustain their first-half competitiveness, albeit against a top four contender.
The early loss of newly trialled midfielder Zane Trew was a cruel blow to open proceedings, with a head knock that likely rules him out of next week's Gold Coast clash also.
"Yeah that didn't last too long did it, which is unfortunate for Zane, he's had a few weeks playing and was really looking forward to the opportunity," the Eagles' interim lamented.
"He was one that wouldn't have taken a backward step too."
"First centre bounce, it was a shame because we were excited to see what he could do."
Fortunately, the club may have a few to pick from heading into next week, following a positive outing from plenty of senior candidates in West Coast's WAFL loss to Subiaco.
"I really enjoyed how they went about it. Archer Reid went back and has a real presence in the air, Coen Livingstone, Clay Hall, Dom Sheed performed well," Schofield mentioned.
"That's a reflection on the connection and unity of the group to get it done together."