West Coast coach Andrew McQualter says the Eagles are "not far away" despite a frustrating 11-point loss to Richmond at the MCG on Sunday, lamenting his side's inability to convert dominance into scoreboard pressure.

The Eagles controlled large periods of the contest and generated plenty of opportunities, but inaccurate kicking proved costly as Richmond held on for a 12.12 (84) to 9.19 (73) victory.

McQualter said his side's inability to convert dominance into scoreboard pressure was ultimately the difference.

"At one stage we were 3.17 and we could have been a large portion up on the scoreboard," McQualter said.

"Bad kicking is bad football at the end of the day.

"We weren't able to capitalise on our shots, and we left an opening at three-quarter time."

Despite the result, McQualter was encouraged by the way West Coast played for much of the afternoon.

"It felt like all game, particularly the first three quarters, everything was on our terms," McQualter said.

"We were playing the right way and had them playing a slow, wide game.

"Unfortunately, we just couldn't capitalise on any of it."

Competitive performances against quality opposition have provided further evidence of the team’s development.

"The way we're playing, the longer we play together and the better understanding we have of each other, we will win a lot of games of football," McQualter said.

"We are setting these players up to win finals games, and I truly believe that's where we're headed.

"It's not far away for us. We believe we're playing the right way and heading in the right direction, but it has to turn."

McQualter said the disappointment in the rooms after the game reflected the effort being put in by the group.

"I would hope they're all emotional," McQualter said.

"Losing sucks. We've lost too much.

"These guys are working their butts off, and I've got great belief that the scoreboard will turn for them."

One of the Eagles' biggest positives was another standout performance from Harley Reid, who continued his excellent season with a dominant display around the contest finishing with 34 disposals and nine clearances.

"I thought Harley was terrific again," McQualter said.

"He's having a massive season.

"Another great game from him. He's doing a terrific job for us, and we've got to keep supporting him."