Dees coast into finals with victory

WEST Coast’s bid to land a toptwo berth faces a nervy Gabba test after they suffered a 17point loss to Melbourne at Optus Stadium.

Eagles forward Jack Darling lasted just 10 minutes before being forced out of the game with concussion, and the Demons capitalised to post the 16.12 (108) to 14.7 (91) win in warm conditions.

Melbourne’s 13th win locked in their finals spot, ending the club’s 12-year drought.

West Coast would have locked up a top-two berth with victory, but they now need to beat Brisbane at the Gabba next Sunday in order to secure two home finals. If they lose to Brisbane, they could drop as low as fourth.

Eagles coach Adam Simpson said it’s important for his side to put the disappointment of the loss to Melbourne behind them.

“Look if you had have said at the start of the year that for the last round you’re playing an away game for second spot on the ladder, we would have taken it,” Simpson said.