BEATEN on the scoreboard, but not in effort.

Interim coach David Teague praises the application of his players in Carlton’s 24-point loss to reigning premier West Coast.

After bursting out of the blocks, the Blues were put to the sword by the Eagles in the middle two quarters, with the visitors kicking out to a six-goal lead.

While the in-form Blues battled manfully, the Eagles managed to hold their hosts at an arm’s length.

According to Teague, it was a matter of Carlton not executing and finishing off its own plays.

“The effort was there, I thought our boys really cracked in: I’m super proud of the way they went about,” Teague said.

“In the end, we saw a really good team. West Coast is strong and in the end was just that little bit cleaner.

“There will be some great lessons to come out of it for our playing group.”

On the stats sheet, the Blues defeated the Eagles in the contest, outranking their opponents in clearances (+10) and contested possessions (+18) while shading the Eagles for tackles (+1).

Teague said the message was simple for those who are selected to play each week.

“I was proud of the effort: I don’t take anything extra out of it. That’s what we do,” he said.

“That’s what is expected of us. We don’t give up at any stage.

“If you want to play in this team and want to wear the Navy Blue jumper, then you compete all day.”

In a boost for the Blues, Teague forecasted that the experience of Matthew Kreuzer and Dale Thomas could be available next weekend.