West Coast Eagles coach Adam Simpson aiming to kill Richmond Tigers’ ‘mojo’ ahead of Round 18 clashChris Robinson
Herald-Sun
July 24, 2014 1:29PMWEST Coast coach Adam Simpson is likely to know fairly early in tomorrow night’s clash how his team is tracking in taking away Richmond’s new-found “mojo”.
The Tigers come to Patersons Stadium having won their past three matches to offer some salvation to supporters amidst an underwhelming 2014 campaign.
And Simpson has targeted limiting Richmond’s fast starts as the key to ending that streak and keeping the WA club’s slim hopes of playing finals football alive.
Richmond has won its past four first quarters, averaging almost five goals per term in that time.
In contrast, the Eagles have conceded three or more goals in 11 first terms this year – and gone on to lose all bar two of those games.
Simpson said the key to stopping the Tigers was stifling any hope of a fast start.
“I think they’ve got their mojo back,” the West Coast coach said this morning.
“(In the) last five weeks, their numbers, regardless of the wins and losses, are really high in everything from contested ball to time in possession, clearances, scores from stoppages, all the things that made them such a good team last year.
“They’re back. They’re in a really good space. They did a number on us last year over here. It’s going to be a difficult game.
“They start really well and time in possession is a big thing for Richmond. We know that they like to control the ball. But they also have been really good in contested ball as well.”
The Eagles will target star trio Dustin Martin, Trent Cotchin and Brett Deledio, with Mark Hutchings likely to spend time with one of the trio in a run-with role after an encouraging effort against Lion Pearce Hanley a fortnight ago.
West Coast has made four changes to the side that beat Brisbane , with Josh Kennedy returning from suspension and retiring big man Dean Cox also added.
Mitch Brown returns from a two-game stint on the sidelines after a knee injury, while Brad Sheppard has also been recalled.
Scott Lycett, Callum Sinclair, Blayne Wilson and Jacob Brennan are the players to make way.
Midfielder Sharrod Wellingham failed to earn a call-up after being dropped for the Lions clash. Wellingham gathered 26 disposals for East Perth that weekend.
“It’s been hopefully good learning here for Sharrod,” Simpson said.
“He’s real excited about what he can do and what he’s learning off the field and off the track and game day as well, so we think there is some terrific upside from Sharrod and we’re not writing him off in any stretch.
“He’ll be available for tomorrow night and if it’s not this week, hopefully it’s next week.”
Simpson said Cox would not play in each of the club’s final six games, but stressed tomorrow night’s game would not be his farewell.
http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/west-coast-eagles-coach-adam-simpson-aiming-to-kill-richmond-tigers-mojo-ahead-of-round-18-clash/story-fndv8w9k-1227000129208
