West Coast coach Adam Simpson last night hailed the instant impact of star midfielder Andrew Gaff after his best-afield performance on return from suspension.

Simpson conceded the entire Eagles playing group experienced nerves around Gaff’s comeback from an eight-week striking ban against Collingwood at the MCG.

The 26-year-old was crunched by Brayden Maynard early but settled with nine first-quarter disposals and had a further 11 in the third term as the Eagles took a stranglehold on the contest.

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Gaff finished with a game-high 35 possessions and five clearances in a telling display in a 22-point win over the Magpies ahead of Saturday night’s blockbuster Western Derby clash with Fremantle at Optus Stadium.

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“I think there was a bit of nerves from everyone with Andrew but we just spoke about the love of the game, playing footy with your mates and see how we go,” Simpson said.

“The synergy is always probably going to be there and he got some footy early, which was good for him.

“I’m just glad it’s over, the first game, and next week’s the derby so there will probably be a bit going on there, but he’s just got on with it.

“Again, this whole thing has been self-inflicted, but he’s paid his dues and he’s back with us.”

Simpson praised the Eagles’ resilience after they withstood a stern challenge in the second half to register a fourth consecutive win over Collingwood.

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The record includes three straight triumphs at the MCG in the space of nine months.

West Coast matched the Magpies’ highly rated midfield in clearances and won the inside-50 count after being well beaten in both those areas by Brisbane and GWS in the opening two rounds.

“It’s a tough effort to come over here and play a team that’s in really good form with a good, healthy list,” Simpson said.

“To get away with a win, we were really proud of our players.

“I thought it was a really gutsy win.”

Simpson wouldn’t buy into the storm surrounding the controversial rule around sliding and contact below the knees, which was branded an “absolute disgrace” by Geelong superstar Patrick Dangerfield after Collingwood’s Tom Phillips was penalised over a collision with Jamie Cripps.

“We can’t comment on the umpires in that sense but it works both ways and I’m sure Nathan (Buckley) won’t be using the umpires as an excuse,” Simpson said.

“The umpires are still finding their balance, as well, with these new rules plus a few tweaks in interpretation.

“It’s probably taken a bit longer than normal for the umps, so we’ve just got to have a bit of patience and I’m sure it will settle down.”