RD 18 Review - COLTS and Reserves

After beating recent top four teams East Fremantle and Claremont over the last fortnight, the Thunder took on the ladder leading Swan Districts this week. It promised to be an exciting game with both teams in good form and looking to consolidate their positions on the ladder. In the opening term the Thunder certainly had their opportunities however inaccuracy in front of goal proved costly kicking 1.6 to 1.0 by quarter time.  With the high pressure being displayed by both teams, neither could gain the upper hand. At half-time the Peel boys held a 9-point lead which could have been greater with scores at 3.12-30 to 3.3-21.

In the third term it was still an arm wrestle, however Swans stronger players started to get on top and accuracy in front of goal assisted them turning the deficit around by three-quarter time and go into the final break with an 11-point lead. Neither side was able to get their fluent ball movement going as the pressure from both teams was relentless all day it was going to be a fiercely contested final term. Whilst Peel were able to get the ball forward inaccuracy again hindered the dominance and Swans were able to capitalise, showing why they have been the dominant team of the last two-years. They eventually ran out winners by 22-points, despite having three less scoring opportunities.

It was a great lesson for the Peel players, and whilst it is a hiccup, the run since the state game has been terrific with 7 wins and 1 loss and sitting in fourth place, it sets the team up for a critical final month of football to see if they can qualify for the final-5.