West Coast Coach Stands by Harley Reid Following Disciplinary Scrutiny
West Coast Eagles coach Andrew McQualter has publicly defended star midfielder Harley Reid after questions arose about his discipline during a difficult outing in Saturday's 128-point loss to the Sydney Swans. Reid, the No.1 draft pick, faced a tight tag from James Jordon, limiting him to just 17 disposals and one clearance in the 24.19 (163) to 4.11 (35) defeat.
Reid's Frustrations and Team Dynamics
The match marked a stark contrast to the opening three rounds, where Reid thrived alongside Elliot Yeo as the Eagles started the season with a 2-1 record. With Yeo sidelined due to a groin injury and Deven Robertson suspended, Reid struggled, managing only 10 disposals in the first three quarters before being moved to half-back. His frustrations were evident, including giving away a 50-meter penalty for not returning the ball to the correct opponent.
McQualter addressed Reid's actions, particularly his response when teammate Reuben Ginbey received a forearm to the head from Angus Sheldrick. "I've just been told that he (Ginbey) got hit in the head and Harley didn't appreciate that and stood up for him," McQualter said. "I don't want Harley to give away free kicks, and we talk about that, but the fact he's trying to stand up for his teammates, it's a pretty good trait."
Lack of Support and Coaching Insights
McQualter acknowledged that Reid lacked sufficient support from his teammates during the match. "We didn't help Harley enough," he conceded. "We need Harley playing great footy for us ... so his teammates have got to help him do that. That's the first hard tag he's copped this year, so we'll have a look at it and we'll get to work on it. It wasn't quite the level he's been at the last few weeks, but that's what you get from a 20-year-old."
The loss to Sydney, representing West Coast's fifth-largest defeat in club history, serves as a reality check for the rebuilding team. McQualter admitted the Eagles are not yet at the level of the AFL's top teams but dismissed suggestions that players became overconfident after recent wins over North Melbourne and Port Adelaide.
Team Updates and Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Deven Robertson will return for the Gather Round clash with Geelong at Norwood Oval, while Elliot Yeo's availability remains uncertain. Bailey Williams is under consideration for the No.1 ruck role after Matt Flynn was outplayed by Swans big man Brodie Grundy, who recorded 28 disposals, 33 hitouts, nine clearances, and one goal.
This match highlights ongoing challenges for the West Coast Eagles as they navigate a rebuilding phase, with Reid's development and team cohesion being key focal points for improvement in the coming rounds.
