Thunder's Slim Finals Hopes Snuffed out at the hands of Swan Districts

Peel Thunder’s finals hopes are over after suffering a devastating four-point loss to Swan Districts at Steel Blue Oval.

The Thunder were on top all day until the Swans held them goalless in the final term to get over the line 7.6 (48) to Peel’s 6.8 (44). 

Thunder coach Cameron Shepherd said it was a sombre mood in the rooms after the game.

“We’re really disappointed we led for most of the game and lost, we didn’t take our chances,“ he said. 

The first term saw an even, contested battle with both sides working tirelessly to gain momentum. 

Debutant Tyrone Thorne marked his first quarter of league football with a goal, while the Thunder’s pressure was enormous highlighted by the 26-12 tackle count.

At quarter time Cam Shepherd praised his side’s fight however acknowledged the need to clean up their skills. 

The second term was more of the same, with a swirly breeze making it difficult for both teams to convert their opportunities.

Peel went in to half time six points in front however needed to up the ante if they were to get home with the victory. 

Cameron Shepherd said improving ball use was a big focus for the second half.  

“We were a little bit impatient with ball in hand and then on top of that we gave the ball back to Swan Districts when we were in control,“ he said. 

The third quarter was again goal for goal, with neither side managing to break away. 

Peel led by five points at three quarter time and Cam Shepherd called for his players to make the last quarter their best 30 minutes of the season, with finals on the line.

Unfortunately the Thunder couldn’t do what their coach asked of them, failing to kick a goal in the final term.

Two goals in the last 10 minutes saw the Swans over the line in a thriller, ending Peel’s finals hopes.

On a shattering day for the away side, Bailey Banfield had a mammoth game with 38 disposals, 13 tackles and a goal. 

Skipper Ben Howlett also stood up with 27 disposals, 16 tackles and two goals. 

Peel will look to finish their season on a high when they face Perth at David Grays Arena on August 24.