BEING challenged to lift by coach Adam Simpson was the catalyst for Jack Redden to set a benchmark at West Coast, and the ex-Lion admits his next test is to deliver his best consistently.
Simpson "put it on" Redden after the Eagles' road loss to Richmond at the MCG in round three and the tough midfielder responded with 20 disposals – 14 contested – against Sydney in arguably his best game in blue and gold.
"The week before I probably wasn't up to scratch and he just said 'We need a little bit more from you' and I thought I responded in that Sydney game and had a good output for the team," Redden said.
"I've set the bar and that's what I need to get to each week."
Redden has maintained high standards since, bringing his trademark intensity and pressure around the contest, and is turning his form around after a frustrating start to his career at West Coast.
The 26-year-old had an injury-interrupted pre-season after being traded to the Eagles at the end of 2015, affecting his output last year when he averaged 16 disposals.
While Redden's possessions haven't increased significantly – up to 18 per game – his contested work, tackling (5.3) and impact has spiked after a solid summer on the track.
"Obviously when you can come to a club you want to earn the respect from the coaches, players and everyone around the club," Redden said.
"It was tough last year and I probably didn't get the season I was after.
"Getting that training in summer really helps, so I feel fit and strong at the moment.
"If I can bring my pressure and my tackling around the contest, I think I can add a dimension to our midfield."
Redden arrived at the Eagles at the same time as Sydney premiership player Lewis Jetta, who also struggled to adapt and has once again been sent back to the WAFL to find some form.
"Obviously with me and Jetts it wasn't ideal, it was a bit of a slow start, but we're working through that," Redden said.
"It's just building those relationships with teammates, getting more game time and I think it will change in time."
Redden said the under-fire Eagles felt they had a point to prove in Saturday night's commanding Western Derby triumph, but a sterner test awaits on the road against a red-hot Port Adelaide this weekend.
West Coast's depleted ruck stocks have been further diminished by an elbow injury suffered by luckless former Geelong big man Nathan Vardy, leaving Jonathan Giles likely to shoulder most of the load against the Power.
The Eagles' injury list has swelled to about 15 players and boom recruit Sam Mitchell appeared to struggle with his sore left ankle during the derby.
However, Redden expected the former Hawks champion to be fit to face Port.
"Obviously it was a severe ankle injury. He's a tough little bugger and he's bounced back pretty quick," he said.
"He doesn't show much pain and I think he'll get through it."
