WEST Coast coach Adam Simpson admits his team is not yet in the elite echelon of the competition, after a lacklustre performance against Carlton on Sunday. 

Heading into the clash against Carlton at the MCG, the Eagles had a golden opportunity to move into the top four, with their percentage just 0.1 behind the Sydney Swans. 

While a seven-point victory over a plucky Blues side was enough to grab the critical four points, it wasn't enough to edge out the Swans for a place in the top four. 

The Eagles held a 27-point lead at three-quarter time but were outscored by the Blues, who kicked five goals to two in the final term.

Click here for Adam Simpson's full media conference 

Simpson said he was relieved to get the win, but admitted last year's grand finalists needed to markedly improve over the final six weeks of the home and away season. 

"I think this time of year, and all the coaches would say this, is just knock over the wins," Simpson said after the game. 

"We've got work to do. We're not elite, we're not in the top couple in the comp in terms of form. 

"We're realists, we don't assume that we're playing like a top-two, top-four side at the moment." 

The narrow win on Sunday was just the Eagles third on the road this year, and their first win at the MCG for 2016. 

The home of football hasn't been a happy hunting ground for West Coast, with their last two losses at the hands of Hawthorn, including last year's Grand Final defeat. 

West Coast defender Brad Sheppard told AFL.com.au the win at the MCG was important in fueling the belief among the playing group that they can win games at the venue. 

"It gives so much confidence to the group that we can win here," Sheppard said. 

"The last couple of times we've played here we haven't lived up to our potential, which is disappointing. 

"We feel like we're building towards our best. We've just got to keep notching up the wins and that will hopefully put us in contention." 

West Coast will get another chance to play on the MCG in the home and away season with Simpson's men to return in a fortnight to face Collingwood. 

The Eagles then face a tough run home with GWS, Hawthorn and Adelaide their last three opponents before finals. 

Defender Jeremy McGovern was among the best against the Blues and played most of the game with a cracked thumb. 

"He's a very important player for us and he's had thumb issues now for the last couple of years. We'll have to see how he pulls up," Simpson said. 

Should West Coast lose McGovern for Saturday's clash against Melbourne at Domain Stadium, Eric Mackenzie is waiting in the wings for an opportunity, following his impressive WAFL form. 

Forward Jack Darling copped a knock to his head late in the game, while prolific midfielder Matt Priddis had his left quad strapped in the second quarter. 

Simpson said both should be right to face the Demons next week.