Finals credentials on the line for Peel

FOLLOWING a string of promising performances, the biggest test of Peel Thunder’s finals credentials comes in the form of a powerful Subiaco side primed for another tilt at the flag.

The Thunder travel up the freeway to face a Lions side that is still two games clear in top spot, but smarting after a tight loss to West Perth last week.

Despite losing by 10 points, the Lions inaccuracy was costly with 20 scoring shots to 15, however one area Peel could expose the reigning premiers is in the ruck.

Last week, West Perth’s Chris Keunen amassed 57 hitouts opposed to David Madut, and given the recent form of Jonathan Griffin and the returning Jack Hannath, this could be a crucial element to the outcome of the contest.

Griffin and the outgoing Zac Clarke combined for 75 hitouts against Perth last week, and that dominance was reflected with 61-30 inside 50s, 352-302 disposals and, most telling, a 62-point victory.

Peel’s defenders were powerless to stop the slick skills of Shane Yarran last time these two sides met, and he warrants considerable attention.

Yarran booted six goals from 21 possessions in the Lions’ 60-point win in Round 8, and holds a handsome 12-goal lead in the race for the Bernie Naylor Medal with 37. 

At the other end of the ground, Peel’s forward line is functioning beautifully through a combination of swift ball movement up field and a wide range of goalkicking options.

Leroy Jetta booted back-to-back four-goal hauls before registering four behinds against Perth, but Max Duffy (four) Matt Taberner (four) and Gerald Ugle (three) stepped up to the plate to ensure a winning score was registered.

Peel’s forwards could capitalise on the absence of five-time premiership defender Darren Rumble due to injury, although the Lions still have plenty of polish with State representative Clancy Wheeler named at centre-half-back and former Sydney-listed defender Jordan Lockyer in a back pocket.

Peel hasn’t beaten the Lions in the last four attempts, and they haven’t won at Medibank Stadium since Round 17, 2012.

But this Peel side has shown tremendous character this season, and a strong start will be important against such a powerful opponent.

Bouncedown at Medibank Stadium is 2.40 on Saturday, so make the trek up the freeway and support the boys!