The relationships between Freo’s first year players and their older teammates has been the key to Peel’s form over the last few weeks, according to rookie Jacob Ballard.

Peel were beaten by South Fremantle by one point last Saturday at Fremantle Oval after being in front for the majority of the game.

The previous week they recorded their second highest ever winning margin, defeating Perth by 65 points at Lathlain Park.

“There hasn’t been so much a change in focus in terms of game plan or anything like that,” Ballard said. 

“Just the gelling of the Peel guys and the first year Freo guys with the older Freo guys.

“We are all starting to gel together a lot better now. That has helped us a lot with our performance.”

Ballard felt Peel had been competitive all year, but added they weren’t getting reward  for effort.

“I think we have definitely improved a lot since the start of the year,” he said.

“All year we have been pretty competitive but the last couple of weeks with the wins has been good.”

“I think all the effort is starting to show on the scoreboard now and we are building a bit of momentum to finish off the year.”

Ballard has displayed a knack for being able to find the footy.

The midfielder has averaged 24 disposals a game in 2014.   

“I’ve been pretty consistent, there is only three games left and I just need to do my best in those games and show everyone what I’ve got,” Ballard said.

“Hopefully, that will help me for next year.”