FridayOL

West Coast Eagles fans are eager for improvement in the WAFL, and young gun Harvey Johnston has laid out a clear plan. The dynamic wingman believes mastering the fundamentals is the key to unlocking the team's potential and bridging the gap with their AFL counterparts. Johnston, a rising star himself, isn't shying away from honest assessment, highlighting areas where the WAFL Eagles need to sharpen their game to truly contend.

Back to Basics: The Foundation for Success

Johnston's message is simple: consistent execution of the basics will pave the way for more ambitious plays and ultimately, greater success. “We need to nail the fundamentals,” he stated recently. “Things like clean handballs, winning contests, and applying pressure – these are the non-negotiables at any level.” He emphasized that while flashy plays have their place, a solid foundation built on these core skills is essential for sustained performance.

Bridging the Gap with the AFL Squad

A crucial aspect of the WAFL Eagles’ role is to support and learn from the senior players. Johnston acknowledges the challenge of competing against AFL-calibre talent but sees it as an invaluable opportunity for growth. “We’re playing alongside some incredible players who are pushing us to be better every week,” he explained. “It’s about absorbing their knowledge, learning from their experience, and striving to reach their standards.”

Specific Areas for Improvement

While Johnston champions the importance of overall improvement, he also pinpointed specific areas where the WAFL Eagles can elevate their game. These include:

• Contested Ball Wins: “We need to be more aggressive and assertive in the midfield contests. Winning those crucial 50-50 balls is a game-changer.”
• Defensive Pressure: “Our defensive intensity needs to be relentless. We can’t afford to give our opponents easy opportunities.”
• Efficiency in Forward Entries: “We need to be smarter and more precise with our forward entries. Converting scoring opportunities is vital.”
• Clean Disposal Under Pressure: “Making good decisions under pressure is key. Avoiding turnovers and maintaining composure are crucial.”

A Positive Outlook

Despite acknowledging the areas needing improvement, Johnston remains optimistic about the WAFL Eagles’ prospects. He believes the team has the talent and potential to achieve significant progress. “There’s a real hunger within the group to improve,” he said. “We’re working hard, learning from our mistakes, and we’re confident that we can turn things around.”

The Future is Bright

Harvey Johnston’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the journey of the West Coast Eagles WAFL team. By focusing on the fundamentals, embracing the challenge of competing against senior players, and addressing specific areas for improvement, the WAFL Eagles are laying the groundwork for a brighter future. Keep an eye on this team – they’re on the rise!