Peel Thunder have been handed their first loss of the 2018 WAFL season, losing to Swan Districts in a tight finish at Steel Blue Oval.

The Thunder were unable to hold off a last quarter surge from the Swans, going down 15.12 (102) to 13.10 (88).

Fremantle defender Ryan Nyhuis said the Thunder’s slow start was one reason for the loss.

“They got out to a quick start on us similar to last week, so we were playing catch up from the start which isn’t ideal,” he said.

“We’ll look to build on that next week.”

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Fremantle midfielder Danyle Pearce again was leading possession getter, collecting 40 disposals through the middle to back up his 32-disposal effort from round one.

Nyhuis said it was Pearce’s leadership, however, that was most important to the team.

“He’s obviously a senior player, probably the most experienced guy playing for Peel at the moment, he’s brings a lot of experience and helps the young boys out with their positioning,” he said.

Darcy Tucker also shone for the Thunder, collecting 34 disposals to go with two goals.

“He’s awesome when he comes back for us, he’s obviously played a few games now at the top level and he’s trying to cement his spot up there,” Nyhuis said.

“[He] uses the ball well and provides a good outlet for us.”

Fremantle ruckman Lloyd Meek played as the Thunder’s main ruckman, gathering 18 disposals, 23 hit-outs and a goal.

“It’s good to have another tall down there so when Sean or another ruckman goes down we’ve got plenty of numbers to fill that void,” Nyhuis said.

Peel will take on the Perth Demons next Sunday 15 April at Bendigo Bank Stadium.