A RELIEVED Adam Simpson says the bye has come at the ideal time for West Coast, with the League-leading Eagles welcoming a rest after almost being overrun by St Kilda on Saturday night.

The Eagles appeared to have the contest in the bag at three-quarter time when they led by 48 points. 

But the Saints came charging back, booting seven goals to one in the final term to get within 13 points of a major upset.

EAGLES MAKE IT 10 STRAIGHT Full match coverage and stats

While Simpson praised his troops for getting the job done and securing a 10th straight win – the third-best streak in the club's history – he is keen to take stock over the bye before a challenging trip to face Sydney.

"Ten in a row is pretty good. We'll take it. We're pretty happy with where we're at, but we're not satisfied," he said.

"We're not the perfect team. We're not delusional, so what a great chance to reassess where we're at, find out what's working for us.

"The players are still playing with good spirit. They're a very tight group.

"We've got a pretty good method at the moment, but that doesn't make us bulletproof, as you saw tonight. 

"The last quarter was obviously disappointing but they didn't give up, the Saints, so we've got to give them credit. 

"Our boys looked a bit tired and a bit sore, but the way St Kilda play invites that type of game and they stuck to their guns all day."

KENNEDY'S BIG BAG Five talking points

Losing star forward Jack Darling to a potentially serious ankle injury in the first term was a huge blow for West Coast but dual Coleman medallist Josh Kennedy delivered a six-goal bag in his absence.

Kennedy gave youngster Logan Austin a football lesson and was covering the ground the best he has in seven games back from pre-season ankle surgery. 

"When Jack went down I thought Josh played this quarter of footy (four goals in the third quarter) that is pretty rare – even for him," Simpson said.

"It's just a reminder of what he can do and his leadership off the ball and his pressure was exceptional.

"He missed all pre-season, so we've been really cautious about his minutes and I'm really glad he's getting more and more like himself.

"Jack's been holding up his end of the bargain with JK coming back. Now we're going to have to lean on Josh."

WATCH Adam Simpson's post-match media conference

Simpson was confident star midfielder Luke Shuey would be fit to face the Swans after being withdrawn late from the Saints win, his fourth game on the sidelines after a hamstring strain.

After originally being omitted, Dom Sheed earned a reprieve to replace Shuey and was among the best with 26 disposals, seven clearances and a goal. 

"I thought he played his part, Dom. He's not playing poorly, there was just a squeeze," Simpson said.

"We've got a lot of players playing their roles, playing them really well.

"If you're not playing your role as some others (are), then it doesn't matter who you are, you've got to make room."