Analysis: Tim Kelly’s sensational axing tells us that selection integrity has returned at West Coast

Andrew McQualter may deny it, but axing Tim Kelly is the first stand of his coaching tenure at West Coast. Eliza Reilly unpacks what cutting Kelly says about where the Eagles are at.

Andrew McQualter is a man of his word.

The first-year coach denied that axing Tim Kelly was a selection statement on Thursday morning. But rather it reaffirmed his long-held philosophy when it comes to picking a team.

Form is McQualter’s primary consideration. And no matter how big the name, if you’re out of it, you’re in danger of losing your spot.

“No, it’s really not about that at all,” McQualter said when asked about whether Kelly’s omission was a statement. “It’s about picking a team we think’s rewarding the right behaviours every week and a team that can win each game of footy.

Tim Kelly scores in the pre-season

“Ultimately it’s my job and it’s our job as a match committee to do it. And the expectation is the player have an understanding that’s we’re picking the best team to win every week and we’re rewarding the right players.”

Kelly, 30, will play WAFL for the first time since 2017 on Friday night after being dropped for the first time in 100 games as an Eagle. He finished with just 14 disposals, one tackle and four clearances in last week’s 81-point loss to Greater Western Sydney.

The midfielder is averaging a career-low 18.8 disposals per game – down from 23.9 last year – while also dipping in clearances (4.5, down from 5.5), tackles (3.3, down from 4.9) and inside-50s (2.8, down from 4.3).

Whether Kelly is the scapegoat for several senior players or not, it indicates that selection integrity has returned at the Eagles.

Tim Kelly looks on after the Derby loss to Fremantle. Picture: Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

McQualter’s predecessor Adam Simpson preferred a ‘credits in the bank,’ approach.

While at times handicapped by availability during the COVID-19 and injury crisis years, Simpson mostly backed his veterans in to turn things around at the top level.

Andrew Gaff was his most high-profile victim, axed after four disposals in Round 1 last year. But Jack Darling wasn’t omitted until Simpson parted ways with the club ahead of Round 18 last year, leaving interim coach Jarrad Schofield to have the hard conversation during his first week at the helm.

Other players were given a longer leash than they probably deserved under Simpson’s watch.

It worked both ways.

Players were encouraged to stand by their teammates and give them time to find form. On the other hand, it sent a message to players at the lower level that whatever they did, it would rarely be enough to jump ahead of middling veterans.

At his best, Kelly is undoubtedly a member of West Coast’s best 22. Just a fortnight ago against the reigning premiers, he had 29 disposals. 24 games ago, he won an Eagles best and fairest.

He hasn’t forgotten how to play football. He did admit during pre-season that he’s fallen out of love with it.

Off-Broadway in the WAFL, that passion might just return as could the two-way running and accountability that has never been a big strength of Kelly’s. But that’s what made him such a damaging player at his prime.

“I’ve been really clear with Tim on what’s required of him within his role,” McQualter said in Adelaide ahead of Saturday’s clash with Carlton. “Tim was really understanding, (and) disappointed, as you would expect. But we’re really supportive of Tim that he’s going to get back to his best footy.

“I’m not going into the details, I don’t think it’s for public forum. It’s really for Tim and our match committee and our group.

“Tim’s really clear on what he has to get to work on and we’ll support him in that.”

McQualter has drawn a line in the sand and set the tone for the rest of the season.

Clay Hall was a baffling omission after a career-best game against Brisbane. Now, he’ll get the opportunity to cement his place in the team long-term.

Tom Gross was a revelation on debut, winning 17 disposals and five clearances. His grunt and class gave Eagles fans a glimpse into the future.

Jack Graham was pushed out of centre bounces against GWS. He’ll want to lead a new-look midfield, one he left Richmond to be a part of.

McQualter’s approach is bold and to be admired.

And if it delivers a result against the winless Carlton, it’ll be more than justified.

Originally published as Analysis: Tim Kelly’s sensational axing tells us that selection integrity has returned at West Coast