West Coast are confident Jeremy McGovern’s bruised and battered body will be able to recover in time to play in the AFL grand final against Collingwood.
McGovern required medical attention in the Eagles’ change rooms after copping a knee to the body during the opening term of Saturday’s 66-point preliminary final win over Melbourne.
The three-time All-Australian was able to return to the field but was rested for most of the final quarter because he was sore and the result wasn’t in doubt.
McGovern looms as crucial to West Coast’s flag hopes, especially after Mason Cox’s star showing in Collingwood’s shock 39-point win over Richmond.
Eagles coach Adam Simpson said the club would take a careful approach with McGovern, who’s the AFL’s intercept king.
“I think he got a knee to the hip point or maybe lower abdomen,” Simpson said.
“He didn’t play the last quarter. He’s probably the one guy we need to look after this week.”
Star onballer Luke Shuey and goalsneak Willie Rioli will also be closely monitored.
Shuey injured his left ankle early in the second term and looked to be in strife as he hobbled to the change rooms.
But the 28-year-old returned to the field and looked unimpeded as he played out the match.
“I think it was your garden-variety ankle sprain so I dare say he’ll be OK,” Simpson said of Shuey.
“A couple of other guys needed some attention. But I don’t think we’re going to be needing to push anyone to the line. I think everyone will be OK.
Rioli needed treatment on his left foot after it was trodden on. However, like Shuey, he was able to return to the field and is in no doubt for the grand final.
West Coast’s fairytale charge to the grand final also has a heartbreaking aspect.
Andrew Gaff (suspended), Nic Naitanui (knee), and Brad Sheppard (hamstring) will miss the chance for premiership success, and Simpson couldn’t help but feel for the star trio.
“My experience tells me over the journey you have to rely on your squad,” Simpson said.
“But when you get players who are potentially in your top 10 players … your first thought is you feel for them a little bit.
“Whilst everyone is celebrating, there will be a little bit inside them that’s hurting. So we just acknowledge that.”