East Fremantle fell just short in an entertaining Round 1 contest at Lane Group Stadium on Friday, with Peel Thunder holding on for a 13.13 (91) to 11.12 (78) win.
In what was the Sharks’ first Sullivan Logistics WAFL match of the 2026 season, there were plenty of positives to take out of the performance, with a host of new recruits making an immediate impact and the side remaining in the fight right until the final siren.
The game began as a tight, physical contest, with Peel edging ahead by three points at quarter-time. The Thunder were able to build some momentum in the second term, kicking 4.3 to 4.1 to extend their lead heading into the main break. Despite East Fremantle continuing to move the ball well and generate opportunities, Peel capitalised on key moments to take a 13-point advantage into half-time.
The Sharks lifted after the break and began to assert themselves around the contest. Tom Joyce led the charge through the midfield, finding the football at will and driving the side forward. His influence was significant all day, finishing with 34 disposals in a best-on-ground performance.
Up forward, new recruit Oskar Smartt proved a constant threat, showcasing his class with four goals in an impressive club debut. Smartt’s ability to present strongly and finish his work kept East Fremantle within striking distance, while Liam Robinson also made an impact, hitting the scoreboard with two goals and providing energy in attack.
Eric Benning competed strongly and provided a presence around the ground, while Toby Alker showed promising signs in his first outing, bringing effort and composure as he settled into the contest.
Despite a strong third quarter from the Sharks, Peel steadied late to take a 16-point lead into the final change. East Fremantle refused to go away in the last, outscoring the Thunder 4.4 to 2.1 and applying strong pressure as they surged forward. The Sharks gave themselves every chance, but Peel were able to hold firm in the closing stages.
Across the ground, there were strong contributors alongside Joyce. Kyle Baskerville (27 disposals), Cameron Eardley (22 disposals), and Zach Rankin (21 disposals and a goal) all played important roles, while Lennon Marlin (20 disposals) and Jack Cleaver (18 disposals, two goals) provided valuable support.
While the result didn’t fall the Sharks’ way, the performance showed plenty of promise. East Fremantle finished with 23 scoring shots to Peel’s 26 and remained competitive throughout, despite the Thunder holding a clear advantage in the ruck.
Around the Grades
There were mixed results across the day for East Fremantle. The Colts delivered a strong performance, defeating Peel Thunder 90 to 41 in an impressive showing, while the Reserves faced a tougher outing, going down 100 to 31.
Looking Ahead
The Sharks now turn their attention to a big Round 2 clash at home against Subiaco this weekend, with a full day of footy set to light up The Good Grocer Park.
The action kicks off with the Reserves at 11:45am, before the League side takes centre stage at 2:30pm. The day will then roll into the evening with our Futures side hitting the field at 5:15pm.
After a competitive opening round performance, East Fremantle will be eager to bounce back in front of the home crowd and turn strong signs into four points. With new recruits already making their mark and the group continuing to build chemistry, there’s plenty to look forward to as the Sharks return home for what promises to be a big contest.