Here are three things we saw in Peel’s big 98-point win over East Perth at Rushton Park in Mandurah.

Energy from senior players

With availability at a premium across the Club’s AFL and WAFL teams, five players (Adam Sweid, Aidan Riddle, Ryda Luke, Leon Kickett and Ollie Murphy) turned out in the Reserves for Peel Thunder. At league level, returning pair Corey Wagner and Jaeger O’Meara brought strong energy to the group despite being unlucky to miss AFL selection.

With spots across all lines fiercely contested, O’Meara and Wagner showed their professionalism and team-first attitude, using their experience through the middle of the ground and reliably contributing while mentoring Freo youngsters Toby Whan and Jaren Carr in similar inside mid/winger roles for the day.

Half-back dash

Half-backs Cooper Simpson and Bailey Banfield generated plenty of run and angle change to drive the team forward. Banfield finished with the second-most disposals on the ground and eight score involvements, while Simpson added seven score involvements of his own and a goal.
Their run-and-carry gave Peel’s forwards ample opportunity ahead of the ball, which they seized as the team posted an exceptional 23.4 for the day in the big win.

Darcy build continues

Sean Darcy was prolific in the ruck from the outset, kicking two goals and having an immediate impact with his clearance work and ability to give the midfield unit first use out of the contest.

As he continues his build towards full match fitness, Darcy’s ground coverage was a standout, with the 203cm big man assuming the number-one ruck role for the day on his minutes and Freo should be pleased to see his continued progress.

SEE ALL THE STATS FROM PEEL’S 98-POINT WIN OVER EAST PERTH HERE