Royals Class Outshines Sharks Effort

East Fremantle were unable to keep pace with a polished East Perth outfit on Saturday, going down 9.7 (61) to 12.11 (83) at The Good Grocer Park.

The Sharks stayed within striking distance for much of the afternoon, trailing by just seven points at quarter time before the Royals gradually built their advantage across the remaining three quarters.

Despite working hard around the contest, East Fremantle were beaten in disposals (361-276) and inside 50s (53-40), with East Perth’s ability to control possession proving the difference.

Oskar Smartt led the way in front of goal with three majors, while Griffin Vladich, Liam Robinson, Phoenix Knight and Zac Petersen all contributed a goal each.

Jack Cleaver continued his impressive season with a team-high 23 disposals and three inside 50s, while Cameron Eardley battled hard through the midfield with 28 disposals. Jono Marsh also worked tirelessly with 20 disposals and three tackles, while Luke Strnadica fought strongly in the ruck with 18 hit-outs.

The Royals proved efficient when it mattered, finishing with 23 scoring shots to the Sharks’ 16, and capitalised on their midfield dominance to secure the 22-point victory.

The Sharks will now look to regroup ahead of next week’s clash as they continue their push towards the closing stages of the 2026 WAFL season.

EAST FREMANTLE 3.2 4.3 7.4 9.7 (61)

EAST PERTH 4.3 8.4 12.8 12.11 (83)

GOALS

EAST FREMANTLE: 3 – O Smartt 2 – J Cleaver 1 – P Knight, G Vladich, L Robinson, Z Petersen

EAST PERTH: 2 – T Medhat, B Middleton, M Schofield, L Tedesco 1 – C Burgiel, S Kuek, K Screaigh, T Lindberg,

BEST

East Fremantle: C Eardley, J Cleaver, T Grylls, J Jansen, E Jones

East Perth: L Tedesco, J Soutar, Z Raykos, T Lindberg, J Sturrock