West Coast Eagles coach Adam Simpson has backed his young star Harley Reid after his controversial tackle on St Kilda's Darcy Wilson during Saturday's loss.
Despite the incident likely warranting a suspension and overshadowing Reid's performance on the day, Simpson maintained that there was "nothing in it" in support of his 19-year-old gun.
“I'm restricted a little bit,” Simpson said in his post-game press conference.
“I thought there was nothing in it. That's what I'll say.
"He's 10-11 games in, he's 19, he was sensational in the first half. So understandably he's going to get some attention. We've got his back. We've got to deal with it as we go.”
The tackle in question saw Reid sling Wilson to the ground, causing Wilson's head to slam into the Optus Stadium turf.
Although Wilson returned to play in the final term, the incident has drawn significant criticism and will have to result in a suspension for Reid, jeopardising his chances for the AFL's Rising Star award.
Simpson defended Reid's aggressive play style while acknowledging the young player's need to learn and adapt.
“I spoke to him – it was like, ‘mate I didn't think there was much in it so keep going. Keep working through the tag',” Simpson added.
The Eagles, who led by 14 points at halftime, struggled in the second half as the Saints shifted Marcus Windhager to tag Reid. This adjustment stifled Reid's impact, limiting him to only three disposals in the latter half of the game. St Kilda ultimately triumphed with a 12.10 (82) to 10.8 (68) victory.
Reid's initial half was impressive, racking up 17 disposals and demonstrating his well-earned hype. However, his frustration was palpable as the Saints' defensive strategy took its toll.
Commentators remain divided on the severity of Reid's tackle. Fox Footy's David King believes the tackle represents a significant problem, stating, “that's a tackle we have to take out of the game.”
Conversely, fellow commentator Will Schofield argued that the action did not warrant a suspension due to the absence of "two actions" in the tackle.
Fans and analysts are now awaiting the Match Review Officer's decision, which could see Reid facing a suspension. This development follows the suspension of another Rising Star contender, Sam Darcy, for a careless hit on Collingwood's Brayden Maynard.
Despite the controversy, Simpson's support for Reid underscores the team's commitment to nurturing its young talent. As the Eagles navigate the remainder of the season, the focus will be on ensuring Reid learns from the experience of run-with roles and adversity in the development of his promising career.