ROUND 1 - LEAGUE REPORT WITH COACH CAM SHEPHERD

The first game of the year saw Peel Thunder unfurling the 2017 Premiership flag and then go into battle against East Fremantle.

Prior to the game we unfortunately had to pull out Tom North who injured himself in the warm up and was replaced by Haydn Matthews.

From the first bounce it was evident that East Fremantle had planned well and come with great intent. In the first ten minutes we were 3.2 (20) to nil down and looking clearly in some trouble. Fortunately our boys steadied and clawed our way back into the game and went into the first change a goal down EF 4.3 to PT 3.3.

The battle continued in the second and third quarters with East Fremantle playing a strong brand of footy, and at times edging up to 3 goals in front. Both teams suffered injuries which would lead the two teams to struggle with rotations. East Fremantle lost Boekhurst, whilst Peel lost Sutcliffe and Dixon during the first half or so with none of those able to return.

The last quarter was set up to be a battle of attrition….last man standing stuff. Peel starting 11 points down had the aid of a breeze and we were able to hold the ball in our forward half for most of the quarter and kick 5 goals to 1 and thus run out a 15 point winner. The game was a real slog and credit goes to both teams for their attitude and intent.

The Peel backline stood firm with great games from all, especially Cox, Kersten, Traye Bennell and Duman. We were really pleased the efforts of the small forwards in Grey, Switkowski, Lawler and Ugle. Tucker, Pearce and Bell als played strongly through the middle.

PT 11.12 (78) d EF 9.9 (63)

We are at Steel Blue Oval this weekend to take on Swan Districts, we look forward to your support.

Cam Shepherd