Eagle gives Tassie cold shoulder

WEST Coast defender Jeremy McGovern dreams of premiership success in warm September spring weather, but first, the cold of Tasmania is what’s at the forefront of his mind.

WEST Coast defender Jeremy McGovern dreams of premiership success in warm September spring weather — but first, the cold of Tasmania is what is at the forefront of his mind.

The Eagles (13-4) sit in second spot on the AFL table and are well placed to launch a premiership assault.

The loss of Nic Naitanui to a season-ending knee injury was a massive hit to their flag hopes, but the fact they have Scott Lycett in their ranks softens the blow.

West Coast will be aiming to make it four wins in a row when it takes on North Melbourne at Blundstone Arena on Sunday.

McGovern has only played in Hobart once before — against North Melbourne in 2015 — and he doesn’t have fond memories.

The Eagles lost that match by 10 points, but it was the cold and windy weather that has stuck in McGovern’s mind the most.

“It was in some of the worst conditions I’ve ever played in,” McGovern said. “It’s definitely cold, and normally windy. It adds a different element to the game.”

A top of 13C is forecast for Hobart on Sunday, but West Coast hopes that the cold temperature won’t halt its hot form.

After facing North Melbourne this week, West Coast tackles Fremantle, Port Adelaide (away), Melbourne (home), and Brisbane (away) in the remaining games.

McGovern played in West Coast’s 2015 losing grand final, and he hopes the club can go one step further this year. “You always dare to dream,” he said.

“That’s what we play for. We can keep dreaming until it happens.”

West Coast coach Adam Simpson has set his sights on locking down a top-four berth, but top two is now well within the club’s reach.

North Melbourne (9-8) sits one win and percentage adrift of the top eight, and needs to beat the Eagles to keep within striking distance.