MATCH REPORT: PEEL THUNDER VS WEST PERTH - 11 SEPTEMBER 2016

Peel Thunder has progressed to the preliminary final for the first time ever after thumping West Perth in Joondalup by 60 points. 

The Thunder was relentless putting in a full four-quarter effort smashing the Falcons in the contested ball around the ground.

Blair Bell got the visitors off to a great start bagging the opening goal to give Peel a confidence lift, which followed with Brayden Lawler bagging a major along with Jonothan Griffin to give Peel an eight point lead after the first term.

The defences of the opposing teams went to war as there were only three goals kicked in the second quarter, however Peel were the beneficiary kicking two to West Perth’s one.

Peel peppered the goal face after the main break kicking 10 majors in the second half whilst keeping the Falcons goalless in the third term.

Once the Thunder bagged the first major of the fourth quarter the deficit was too large for West Perth to mount a comeback leading to a comfortable 10 goal win, Peel 15.15. 105 to West Perth 7.3. 45.

Blair Bell played an important role in the win today as he bagged three goals and picked up 18 disposals, making his presence felt.

Bell said there are no individuals out on the ground.

“We just play as a team and the feeling around the club is real good.”

Captain Gerard Ugle lead from the front with an arguable best on ground display kicking four goals and racking up 19 possessions.

Bell said Ugle is a vital player for Peel.

“He is very important.

He had one of his better games today, he has hit form just at the right time, he leads from the front like he did today and he gets everyone up.”

Rory O’Brien was at his typical best finding plenty of the ball with 29 possessions as the midfield put in a strong performance around the ground.

Bell said O’Brien’s consistency is admirable.

“His performance is always strong, he is always leading from the front and bringing the boys up with him.”

Next week they take on South Fremantle away from home in their first preliminary final for a chance to play for the premiership cup in the following weeks grand final.