Simpson left Hill in no doubt on future
West Coast forward Josh Hill says a frank discussion with coach Adam Simpson over summer has been the catalyst for his improved form this season.
And he’s hoping his response to Simpson’s challenge has been enough to earn a new deal for next year and beyond.
Hill struggled to lock down a senior spot in Simpson’s first year at the club, but has hit something close to career-best form since being recalled in the side’s round-three loss to Fremantle.
He has kicked 18 goals in the past six games, dwarfing his previous best average of 1.75, set in 2010 while playing for the Western Bulldogs.
It’s a patch of form which has seen him become a vital part of an Eagles side sitting second on the ladder on the back of five consecutive wins.
“The pre-season (Simpson) had a talk to me about what he expected and what he wanted me to bring,” Hill said.
“Just knowing that this is my last year I wanted to make an impact and build from that and show the club that I’m keen to stay and will do whatever it takes.”
The Eagles must try to extend their winning streak against Geelong at Domain Stadium on Sunday without Elliot Yeo, after the club decided not to challenge his one-game ban for striking St Kilda’s Jimmy Webster.
Simpson indicated on Monday night there was a strong chance the club would appeal the ruling, but it is understood the risk of losing him for two games proved too great.
Hill was confident the Eagles had sufficient talent to cover the loss of Yeo. “He’s definitely had a great season so far,” he said.
“It’s a big loss for us, but I think we’ll have players like maybe Xavier Ellis pushing for a spot, and it’s good to have Scott Selwood back in the line-up.”
Ellis (calf) trained with the squad at Domain Stadium yesterday and was listed as available on the club’s injury list.
Forward Jack Darling (foot) was also on the track and looked strong, but is still listed as two weeks away from a return.
Hill yesterday appeared alongside West Coast Fever’s Josie Janz-Dawson modelling the jumper the club will wear against the Cats to celebrate the AFL’s Indigenous Round.
Fever will also wear an indigenous strip, against the NSW Swifts at Perth Arena on Saturday.
