Here are three things we saw from Peel’s thrilling after-the-siren win against Claremont at Rushton Park.

Fight back

For the first time in several rounds, Peel Thunder was slow out of the blocks and went into halftime down 2.6 (18) to 6.4 (40). But a second-half blitz, with renewed vigour for the contest and improved connection, saw the team once again align around the values that have made them a strong unit this year and mount a comeback.

Led by senior players Corey Wagner and Mason Cox in the middle of the ground, Peel gained better midfield and forward-half connection, which helped kick-start the fightback. Wagner kicked a goal late in the game to cut the margin back to just a few points.

Riddle’s moment

Fresh off a two-year contract extension with Fremantle, young ruckman Aiden Riddle enjoyed a moment he will cherish for a lifetime, with an after-the-siren set shot on goal to win the game for the Thunder.

In the final minute of the game, a loose ball was chipped just inside Peel’s 50-metre arc, where Riddle flew to take a strong contested mark before composing himself as the siren blew, and icing the game to give the Thunder a three-point win after trailing at every break of the day.

Strong day for the backs

Despite trailing for the majority of the day, the backline group was full of solid contributors. Hugh Davies continued his strong form at WAFL level, with the key defender gathering 33 disposals and 10 marks, while rebounding defender Bailey Banfield was again impressive, providing plenty of spring off half-back with 28 disposals, six inside 50s and a goal. Brandon Walker, Oscar McDonald and Cooper Simpson were also solid contributors.

SEE ALL THE STATS FROM PEEL’S THRILLING WIN OVER CLAREMONT HERE