The defeats heavily outweigh the victories, but West Coast coach John Worsfold says finding the right mix of the AFL club's senior and younger players is a fine balancing act.

Worsfold admitted his younger players could not sustain their vigour throughout Friday night's loss to Essendon at Telstra Dome, and that inconsistency was one of the hallmarks that came with playing younger men.

The Eagles on Friday night fielded seven players who made their debut either this season or last, and their 16.17 (113) to 13.13 (91) loss was the club's 10th from 12 games.

"With young players they don't, they can't, have a big impact over four quarters and if you've got a lot of them out there that does leave gaping holes at periods of the game," Worsfold said.

"Inconsistency is a big thing, both within games and week to week, but getting more and more games under their belts will make them better for the future."

While keen to promote newer players, West Coast's midfield will regain a wealth of experience against reigning premier Geelong next weekend.

Daniel Kerr, who withdrew from Friday night's game because of a calf strain, should play, along with Michael Braun (knee) and Chad Fletcher (back), who were rested.

"In the immediate term they still offer our team and will help our young players learn," Worsfold said of having more seasoned players in the line-up.

"We've got to look to get the balance of having enough young players in learning the game, but also having enough senior players in there to be really competitive and win games.

"That's the best way to learn, is to play in winning teams and have that confidence."

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