West Coast coach Adam Simpson says the pain isn't over yet despite his young side producing one of its bravest displays in years in their eight-point AFL loss to St Kilda.
The loss of Tim Kelly and Luke Edwards before Sunday's match due to illness meant West Coast had just 23 fit players to pick from - a week after the team crumpled to a 171-point loss to Sydney at the SCG.
Despite the huge obstacles and being forced to field a side with seven teenagers, a brave West Coast shot out to a shock 31-point lead against St Kilda in a display that was full of spirit and fight.
The Saints eventually wrested back control and went on to kick the last four goals of the match to snare the 12.13 (85) to 12.5 (77) win.
But West Coast's spirited display has raised hopes they can be competitive for the remainder of the season, and maybe even avoid the wooden spoon.
Their renewed vigour will be put to the test on Saturday when they confront Brisbane at the Gabba.
"I think there was an opportunity lost," Simpson said of the loss to St Kilda, which was West Coast's 13th in a row.
"We had a couple of chances late to be within a kick. So we're not high-fiving.
"But I think everyone can appreciate a better result and better effort than (against Sydney).
"It does feel like we've had a win just being competitive, which is - I hate to say it - but I suppose it's a step forward.
"We were really disappointed (against Sydney) and understand the criticism, but the pain is not over. So we've just got to keep working hard."
Kelly is expected to return against the Lions, and star defender Jeremy McGovern could join him in the side in what would be a huge boost.
McGovern hasn't played since tearing his hamstring in round three, and his expected return a fortnight ago was postponed after he pulled up sore from training.
"He's pretty keen to play," Simpson said.
"It's been 14 weeks, so I'm hoping he's available and let's see how we go."
Forward Jack Darling is in some doubt after being subbed out against St Kilda with a sore right shoulder.
"It was a reluctant sub. I don't think he was too happy about it, but he clearly couldn't compete to the level," Simpson said.
"I thought he started really well, he's been under some duress as well, so I thought for the most part he gave everything.
"And then it was just too sore and we had we had to sub him."
Simpson praised Luke Shuey for going "turbo" against the Saints, with the skipper tallying eight tackles alone in the first quarter on the way to 28 disposals and eight clearances.
