Andrew McQualter says West Coast are laying the foundations for long-term success despite a disappointing 54-point loss to GWS in Sunday's second last game of the season.

The Eagles started strongly in Sydney, controlling territory and generating repeat forward entries to match the Giants through the opening term, but were unable to maintain that level after quarter-time as the home side took control.

McQualter said being outworked across the final three quarters was the most disappointing aspect of the performance, particularly given the effort and competitiveness his side has shown for much of the season.

"My summary of the game is pretty much after quarter one we got outworked," McQualter said.

"I can't say that too often this year. I don't think that's been a theme for us. Teams outrunning us, but I thought the Giants outran us.

"We couldn't stop their ball movement. I thought our defensive intent just wasn't at the same level it's been."

After kicking 5.1 in the opening quarter, the Eagles managed just 2.14 for the remainder of the match, with McQualter conceding missed opportunities in front of goal hurt both the scoreboard and the team's ability to maintain momentum.

"The accuracy was a problem again and what that does, no one tries to miss, we all get that, but it definitely dampens your spirit," McQualter said.

McQualter said both the Eagles' defensive intent and system broke down after the first break, allowing GWS to move the ball too easily from defence and control large portions of the contest.

"We'll learn some good lessons around our defensive intent and our system. Both parts broke down after quarter-time," McQualter said.

"The two half-backs in particular killed us. I think they had 40 touches in our forward 50, which is an enormous amount of the ball. We just couldn't stop them."

McQualter believes growth continues to occur beneath the surface and remains confident the club is heading in the right direction despite a win-loss record that doesn't fully reflect the progress made.

"We're in a rush. It's been a long time now for our fans," McQualter said.

"But what we're doing right now, we are laying really strong foundations to not just win a few games, but to contend, we want to win premierships.”

The Eagles will close out their season against Hawthorn next Sunday at Optus Stadium, with McQualter keen to ensure the group carries momentum and standards into the off-season.

"We've spoken a lot about the way you finish seasons being the way you begin your pre-season, off-season and next season," McQualter said.

"We get one more opportunity to improve our football and play against another good team, and we'll be throwing everything at it."