Harvey says Fremantle had Adelaide "on the ropes" in the last quarter, but decision-making errors from his players were crucial after they had clawed their way back from 32 points down to be within four points of the Crows.
"You always measure yourself by what you do when the game’s in the balance like that," Harvey said.
"We made some crucial errors when the game was there to be won, because Adelaide were on the ropes. And fundamentally we had some players that just didn’t think through the situation good enough, and it cost us.
"When you lose games like we have, it’s either decision-making or skill. And it’s the calmness and direction of voice around your teammate that has the ball.
"We need to understand that and be ruthless about it."
Although disappointed with the loss, Harvey said the way his team kept attacking was pleasing, in particular the efforts of his young players, including Rhys Palmer (who starred with 29 possessions), Marcus Drum and Garrick Ibbotson.
"I’m disappointed because we lost, but I was happy with the way that they (his side) kept coming throughout the course of the game," Harvey said.
"Our endeavour to keep coming was something you build on.
"I thought Rhys Palmer was sensational in the last quarter. To see a kid do that in his first year – to have the audacity to keep coming and give the team some hope (was fantastic)."
Harvey says he’s now looking to settle the Fremantle side following wholesale changes over the first month of the season. But he’s not yet happy with the delivery of the ball into his forward line.
"We made it difficult for our forwards (today)," he said. "Inside 50 effectiveness is one of your key indicators, and that’s an area that we need to get better. And you have to have a look at personnel, you have to have a look at timing of the forwards.
"(But) I think I’ve played maybe 32, 33 players so far – and that’s too many, too early. I’ve got to get the stage where I’m just going to hopefully stabilise the team a little bit more."
Chris Tarrant remains in the mix for a recall for the Anzac Day clash against Geelong, but is no certainty.
"It will depend on a number of things," Harvey said. "I’ll have a look at his (WAFL) tape. I must say that he needs to be commended, given what he went through last week, for him to get out and play on the weekend was significant. I can’t go into detail, but … if you knew Chris Tarrant as a person, you (the media) might drop off."
The Anzac Day clash is one that already has Harvey’s pulse racing.
"Absolutely. I’ve come from a club (Essendon) where it’s a big thing playing that day. The spirit, the emotion, the passion – it means a lot. It will be a good experience for our players."
Chris Mayne, who withdrew prior to the game with calf soreness, should be available.
