Fitness, depth drive West Adelaide to unbeaten start, says coach Mark Mickan

WEST Adelaide coach Mark Mickan says depth at the selection table has helped propel his team to its 2-0 start to the season ahead of today’s clash with Sturt at Unley.

WEST Adelaide coach Mark Mickan says depth at the selection table has helped propel his team to its 2-0 start to the season ahead of today’s clash with Sturt at Unley.

Mickan said having a fit list to pick from after a standout pre-season had put pressure on players who were selected to perform and hold their spots. The Bloods have been one of the early season surprise packets with wins over the Eagles and Adelaide and are keen to keep the momentum rolling.

“We had a strong pre-season and quite good numbers doing pre-season which left us with quite a lot of players to choose from (for Round 1),” Mickan said.

“That created competition for spots and as a result it heightens the understanding that there is a need for performance.

“Being fit is a good starting point and that gave us an opportunity to train with a purpose in pre-season.

“But it’s early days and while we’ve started well, the challenge is to maintain it.”

Mickan said winning form meant up to 10 players who played league footy last year were still waiting for a game this season.

Peter Nelson, Richard Newell and Lachlan Jennings have league experience but are in the reserves today.

“I hope everyone who is not being selected a the moment can persist and maintain good performances in the reserves and be ready for it,” Mickan said.

The Bloods are yet to finalise their 21 to play Sturt with two players, who Mickan would not name, under an injury cloud.

In line to debut is 17-year-old Aaron Francis, who has been in Victoria with the Australian Institute of Sport team and was rested from all football last week.

West drew with Sturt in a pre-season trial game and Mickan expects a tough game today.

“I thought they were very good, they applied good pressure and were skilful,” he said.

“They’re coming off a good year last year and we have very high regard for them.”