Important clash looms for Thunder

THE 2015 WAFL season is one of the closest in memory, which makes Peel’s clash with second-placed West Perth tomorrow at Bendigo Bank Stadium almost season-defining.

Just one game and 2.85% separates West Perth and eight-placed Claremont, and given the Tigers thumped the Thunder by 72 points last week, it should serve as a reminder of how important every game is in the context of the season.

The Thunder narrowly lost to West Perth at HBF Arena in Round 2 earlier this season despite leading at half time.

West Perth’s midfield is brimming with talent, with reigning Sandover Medallist Aaron Black and ball-magnet Shane Nelson two of the most prolific midfielders in the competition.

Their supply is provided by the WAFL’s leading ruckman in Chris Keunen, while Michael Lourey (19 goals) capitalises on the bevy of opportunities up forward.

Black, Nelson and Andrew Strijk combined for exactly 100 possessions between them in Round 2, and curbing their influence will again be a critical component of the Thunder’s game plan.

Peel’s midfield provides plenty of grit around the stoppages through the likes of Matt DeBoer and Jacob Ballard; however look for Brendon Jones to have an impact after a couple of quiet weeks.

Leroy Jetta and Gerald Ugle were also down on their usual output against Claremont, but both are capable of bouncing back with a consistent, classy performance.

Hayden Crozier, Jack Hannath and Tendai Mzungu have been named as emergencies for Fremantle ahead of the clash against Richmond tonight, so Peel’s named line-up could be subject to a few changes.

Peel still remains inside the top five; however that could change if the Thunder fails to improve on last week’s performance.

But this is a side that has shown its resilience this season, so expect a better standard from the Thunder against one of the form sides of the competition.

Bouncedown tomorrow is at 2.15 at Bendigo Bank Stadium, so get down and support the boys!

Winner of the Fremantle Tickets is Lynn MacQuarrie. 

Photo: Cofo Foto

Team 

TEAM LIST - ROUND 11

FB: 12. Benjamin Hancock 10. Joshua Bootsma 28. Brady Grey   HB: 42. Ethan Hughes 58. Sean Hurley 11. Joshua Mathers   C: 26. Ed Langdon 3. Brendon Jones 44. Jacob Ballard   HF: 24. Max Duffy 22. Tanner Smith 17. Brayden Lawler   FF: 39. Joshua Deluca 5. Leroy Jetta 1. Gerald Ugle   FOLLOWERS INTERCHANGE 40. Craig Moller 19. Connor Blakely 8. Matthew De Boer 2. Laine Wilkins 14. Lachie Weller 15. Dylan Winton 16. Nathan Fahey 18. Mitchell Gill 20. Kieran May 43. Thomas Vandeleur EMG:   IN: 2. Laine Wilkins, 12. Benjamin Hancock, 15. Dylan Winton, 16. Nathan Fahey, 18. Mitchell Gill, 20. Kieran May, 39. Joshua Deluca, OUT: 23. Hayden Crozier, 36. Zac Dawson, 38. Jack Hannath, 56. Jonathon Griffin,