Eagles ready for Power surge
Matt Priddis says West Coast’s developing team will benefit from being thrust into a finals-like atmosphere against the Power at Adelaide Oval this Sunday.
The Eagles will take on the AFL’s toughest assignment with the benefit of an eight-day break.
The additional day’s rest compared to Port Adelaide, who won yesterday’s showdown against their traditional rivals in the Crows, will be crucial.
Josh Kennedy (elbow), Will Schofield (ankle), Mark LeCras (leg tightness) and Luke Shuey (ankle) all played through problems in the team’s 87-point win over GWS at Domain Stadium on Saturday night.
Priddis said the fifth-placed Eagles would embrace this weekend’s challenge against one of the competition’s best sides.
“We’re really looking forward to getting over and playing a quality side in Port Adelaide,” Priddis said.
“Obviously it’s a great facility, great atmosphere. It’ll be finals like and that’s going to be a great experience for our side.
“We want to challenge ourselves against the best. Port Adelaide have shown they were a kick away from a grand final last year.
“There’s no better time for us to stand up and really compete well against this side.”
Kennedy returned from the rooms after receiving treatment on an elbow problem in the second quarter against GWS to finish with a six-goal haul.
Priddis predicted the team’s spearhead would be fit to line up against the Power.
“JK finished the game really strongly and kicked some good goals for us,” Priddis said.
“He seemed to pull up pretty well. He’ll be managed throughout the week and he’ll be looking forward to taking on Port Adelaide.
“At this stage, I think he’ll be fine.”
Elliot Yeo gave a glimpse of his immense potential with 14 disposals in the second term alone as West Coast seized the ascendancy over the Giants.
The breakout game coincided with a shift into the midfield over the past fortnight, but Priddis said Yeo’s ability to play in different positions remained his strength.
“Elliot’s playing a really important role for us at the moment,” Priddis said.
“We’ve seen him play on (Matthew) Pavlich going back, but then he’s that big bodied midfielder.
“That’s really good for our side because he’s so versatile. He’s going to have plenty of roles this year.”
