Brad Scott has praised his side’s response following a difficult week, emphasising the importance of defensive resilience and skill execution as key areas of focus moving forward.

After conceding 160 points in their previous outing to the Crows, Scott acknowledged the scrutiny on his side’s defensive performance and was pleased with the improvement shown.

"I think the most pleasing thing is when you have a disappointing performance, you get to choose how you respond to it,” Scott said post-match.

"You know, you can capitulate and it's all too hard and the pressure's overwhelming or you can respond. I think that's a pretty good measure of character.

"I think we've got a capable group. That doesn't mean that they're finished products by any stretch of the imagination. 

"The work they put in during the week, when really, they probably could have said, ‘Look, I'm exhausted, I need a break'."

Scott also took a moment to praise debutant Saad El Hawli, who impressed in his first senior game as substitute, entering the contest with the game on the line.

“For a first game at this level, he showed real composure,” Scott said.

“His defensive positioning was solid, and he wasn’t afraid to take the game on when the opportunity presented itself.”

“He’s worked really hard to earn this opportunity, and I was pleased with how he handled himself. It’s always a big step up, but he looked comfortable and contributed well.” Scott added.

Scott also pointed to the return of Dylan Shiel to the midfield as a strategic decision aimed at adding experience to the on ball brigade.

“We wanted to add some experience and composure in there,” Scott explained.

“Dylan knows how to control the tempo, and we saw that in his ball use and positioning.”

Beyond Shiel, Scott praised the collective effort of the midfield group, highlighting their work rate and ability to apply pressure around stoppages, this leading to a winning clearance count on the night.

“Our midfielders played a crucial role in setting up both our offensive and defensive structures,” he said.

“The way they hunted the ball and adjusted their positioning was a big step forward.”

Scott also acknowledged the growing synergy between the midfield group, particularly the balance between inside ball-winners and outside runners.

“It’s about getting the right mix of clearance players and guys who can spread quickly,” he said.

“We’re starting to see that cohesion build, and that will be key for us moving forward.”

Scott also highlighted the resilience of his defensive unit, particularly after a tough week.

“When you have breakdowns across the ground, defenders get hung out to dry,” Scott said.

“Ben is an important part of what we’re doing. We’re optimistic about what it can look like moving forward, and we think they can do it now.”

While pleased with the defensive response, Scott acknowledged that there’s still work to be done, particularly in front of goal.

“We had opportunities, but our finishing let us down at times,” he said.

“That’s something we’ll continue to drill into the group.”

“We need to be cleaner with our ball use going inside 50 and make the most of the chances we create.”

“Sometimes it’s about lowering the eyes and hitting the right target rather than blazing away.”

Scott also stressed the importance of composure in front of goal, particularly in high-pressure moments.

“We know that scoreboard pressure makes a big difference,” he said. “Being able to finish our work is crucial, and that’s something we’re continuing to work on in training.”

With a long season still ahead, the group will be looking to drive improvement in key areas as the team looks to build consistency throughout the year.

“We’ve got a capable group. That doesn’t mean they’re finished products, but we were optimistic that we had,” he said.

“Players got reward for effort last night. It reinforces the work that we’re doing can turn things around quickly.”

“You have to be at your best every week; otherwise, you get exposed,” he added.

“The fundamentals matter,” he said.

“We’ll keep working on them because that’s what separates good teams from great ones.”