It’s never as good as it seems and it’s never as bad as it seems.

That is one of senior coach Adam Simpson’s common assessments as he puts a balanced perspective on life and football results.

The football world was quick to write off the Eagles after two season-ending knee injuries to key defenders in less than a month earlier in the season, but the boys from the West have adapted to have one of the best defensive units in the competition.

The Eagles are currently ranked fourth in terms of points conceded, with a focus on team defence and pressure helping out the back six in most games.

Melbourne great Garry Lyon praised the West Coast Eagles following their win over flag fancies Port Adelaide, saying the defensive effort across the board was outstanding.

“West Coast Eagles they lose Mitch Brown, they lose Mackenzie, Jack Darling hasn’t been able to get on the park and everyone said that’s the end,” said Lyon said on afl.com.au’s Access All Areas.

“That defence stood up when it mattered most, 19 inside 50s they had, Port Adelaide, in the last quarter for a return of two goals two.

“That’s without Brown (in defence for the Eagles), that’s without Mackenzie.

“It’s with guys like Sheppard stepping up, Wellingham who seemed to grit his teeth yesterday, Shannon Hurn down there in the back half.

“They took the game on when they needed to, they were threatened.

“Adelaide Oval with Port Adelaide coming back with a head of steam, 19 inside 50s, that’s a fair feather in their cap for the West Coast Eagles.”

While the win was significant, Coach Adam Simpson was quick to say the club wouldn’t get ahead of itself heading into round seven.

"We're really starting to see some excitement and development with our kids coming through," Simpson stated.

"I think we'll take a lot of confidence from this game.

"Playing our way and having the belief that it works is important for our group.

"Not getting too carried away as you can probably tell."

It’s never as good as it seems and it’s never as bad as it seems.