Michael Barlow kicked the first goal for Peel Thunder and had a massive 44 Disposals, leading the Thunder to a victory win against East Perth in round ten of the WAFL.

WAFL Watch player stats - Saturday 21 May

Fremantle teammate Michael Apeness said Barlow was a great leader.

“He was fantastic today, Mick. Brought us in at quarter, half-time and three-quarter-time, just lifted the group, kicked three goals and had about 15 tackles,” he said.

“Great to have him out on the field.”

Ross Lyon happy with Barlow's performance

The match started slowly for the Thunder in wet and windy conditions at Rushton Park, with East Perth kicking the first two goals of the game.

But the home side kicked back in the second term and took a seven-point lead into the long break.

The Royals were unable to find the major opening again until late in the final term, allowing the Thunder to record a 5.9 (39) to 3.7 (25) victory.

Key defender Sam Collins continued his impressive form in defence with seven marks and 17 disposals.

Michael Apeness said Collins is a great competitor.

“He had about 20 spoils and he just keeps getting better,” Apeness said.

Other strong performers were Cam Sutcliffe with 25 disposals and Tendai Mzungu with 29 disposals, both of whom were returning to Peel after playing with Fremantle the previous week.

Apeness said both were important.

“They were on the wing and basically lifted the game. Great to see those boys competing hard out there,” he said.

Jack Hannath also put in a strong performance with one goal from 16 disposals.

Apeness said it was a great team effort.

“(It was) just a great win for the boys, the last quarter there I think it was six points and we got the win for Peel, “ he said.

Peel now sits fourth on the WAFL ladder ahead of their game against East Fremantle at ATOM Stadium next Saturday.