A magical mantra to open door for success

THREE simple words drove West Coast’s surge to an unexpected premiership this year: love, respect and care.

The Eagles were a $67 premiership chance before Round 1, after an elimination final exit last September, but they reset and strengthened their bond to achieve the ultimate success this year.

“It’s just about love and respect and care for your teammates,” West Coast defender Tom Barrass said.

“It seems so simple but because of the pressures and anxieties you’re exposed to as a player these days, it’s just unbelievable, and making the club an enjoyable place to be.

“It’s the pressure you put on yourself a lot of the time as well and everyone does it.

“Everyone can avoid it, but that’s why you’ve got to make the footy club an enjoyable place to be around so when you are there it frees your mind and you look at the result.

“We’re a really tight group on a personal basis and it’s just so great to be able to share this flag with them. I’m just so honoured to be a part of it.”

Barrass had plenty of weight on his shoulders entering Saturday’s grand final, given the big task on Collingwood’s Mason Cox who produced a career-best game a week earlier.

However, he kept the Magpie – who stands 17cm taller – to no marks in the opening half and two goals for the game.

“We had a look at what I did well in the qualifying final and what (Alex) Rance and the Richmond boys didn’t do so well,” Barrass said.

“He adapted his game and I thought he still played well today and he got on top in patches so I’m just happy to have the medal.”

The flag came a week after Barrass’s 50th game.