West Coast coach Adam Simpson reviews his team’s 29-point win over the Crows at Domain Stadium on Sunday.
On their overall performance…
“We left it to the last four minutes of the season to qualify.
“We’ve been in those positions a lot this year… going into the last quarter in a good position to win. To do that today in such an important game, and in such an emotional week with players retiring and the last game at Subiaco, it was good.”
On who stood up for West Coast…
“I’m proud of the players and their resilience throughout the week to stay focused on the process. To kick the last couple of goals was important as well. Some individuals stood up late in the game, which was really pleasing.
“I thought (Lewis) Jetta stood up with some important plays and Jack’s (Darling) mark late in the game, and his defensive pressure, was really important as well.”
On needing to win by a set margin to qualify for finals…
“To not know the result or what we needed to do to win until yesterday… the fact that we were a chance was the pleasing part. We didn’t want to go into the game having to win by 100 points. The stars aligned and I obviously feel a bit for Melbourne, but that’s footy.
“We spoke at three-quarter time about winning the (final) quarter and then we’d qualify. I didn’t go into ‘we need to win by this much’, but we tried to get messages out there late in the game when we were down in terms of making the finals.”
On doing it against the minor premiers…
“It was special for the club to qualify like that against a side that averaged 111 points a game. Obviously, they didn’t have as much to play for as we did, but we had to get the job done and to do it like that… I’m really proud of the players.
“We’re going to move on pretty quick. I’m glad there’s a week off, so we can calm down a bit. We’ll review the game, reflect and move on pretty quickly.”
On how the bye will impact their finals campaign…
“The bye gives you an opportunity to reset and have a look at where you’re at, and what you need to do. The Doggies (winning it) last year gives hope to everyone, but we’ve got to be playing at our best for four quarters to be a chance.
“Anyone who plays finals thinks they can win it. Now we’re in it, we’re in it to win it.”
