Rebounding Thunder defy conditions

Rebounding Thunder defy conditions
Alex Paull

PEEL has snapped a two-game losing streak with a convincing 44-point win over South Fremantle at Fremantle Oval on Saturday.

The visitors exhibited fierce frontal pressure to restrict the Bulldogs to their lowest total against the Thunder in the 12.13 (85) to 6.5 (41) win.

Versatile defender Tom Vandeleur relished his move forward, booting three goals, while Craig Moller also put in his best performance for the season with three goals and 20 hitouts.

The midfield re-grouped after a torrid fortnight to comprehensively dismantle a strong South Fremantle midfield, with Tendai Mzungu (29 disposals and two goals) and Connor Blakely (28 disposals, one goal) outstanding.

Meanwhile, Josh Bootsma and Ethan Hughes continued their good years with strong displays in defence.

Young forward Nathan Fahey also continued his streak of kicking a goal in every match he has played since making his debut in Round 2.

The win cemented Peel’s spot in the top five ahead of the general bye next weekend.

After a strong first term the Thunder managed to keep Souths goalless in the second while piling on three goals to hold a 31-point advantage at the long break.

The third term was met with heavy rain, resulting in stoppage after stoppage.

But despite the tough conditions and the gritty effort from the Bulldogs midfield, the Thunder managed to stand tall amid the pressure, - something that was lacking over the previous fortnight.

Although the Bulldogs managed to boot two goals in the third term, the Thunder’s inaccuracy meant the buffer remained at a steady 28 points at the final change.

As the conditions worsened, the Thunder was able to run out comfortable 44-point winners courtesy of four last term goals.

The league has a general bye next weekend due to the State game against South Australia, before the Thunder face Claremont at the Showgrounds on May 30.