Andrew McQualter, the coach of West Coast, recently discussed the significant meeting held between the club’s leadership and senior players, clarifying that it was inaccurately referred to as an intervention by the media. In light of the team's troubling start to the season with five losses in a row, the football department convened last month with key players to allow them to voice their opinions and concerns, resulting in a notable improvement during their subsequent narrow loss to Essendon.
Currently, West Coast sits at the bottom of the league with a record of 0-7 following a substantial defeat to Hawthorn. Despite the ongoing struggles, McQualter expressed optimism that the previous meeting could steer the club toward addressing and resolving its issues. He firmly rejected the label of “intervention,” stating that it was misleading and emphasizing the importance of engaging influential team members in productive discussions.
Throughout the season, West Coast has faced a slew of negative headlines. The captain, Oscar Allen, notably issued an apology to fans after it was revealed that he met with Hawthorn’s coach, further illuminating the club's turmoil. Concerns have also been raised regarding training standards, with players like Jake Waterman suggesting that younger teammates need to enhance their performances. Compounding the difficulties, star midfielder Elliot Yeo, who has not played this season due to injuries, may face further delays in his recovery after consulting with a surgeon.
Additionally, there are reports indicating that premiership forward Liam Ryan, who is under contract until the end of 2026, might be considering a departure at the end of the year. McQualter acknowledged Ryan’s exceptional abilities and noted that his commitment to the team has been substantial this season. He highlighted Ryan's strong on-field efforts and his defensive contributions, underscoring the player’s investment in the team’s future.
0 Comments