Round 9 Preview | East Perth

The Sharks return to East Fremantle Oval this Saturday, determined to notch their first win of the season, against an East Perth side which has won it’s past two matches.

After showing vast improvement over the last few weeks the boys must now maintain intensity over all four quarters to get over the line.

This week’s match signifies Sean Henson’s 100^th League match for the Blue and Whites.

After a best on ground performance in the Development League against West Perth, Henson earned himself a spot in this week’s side. The 25-year old’s football career began at Rossmoyne where he was selected for East Fremantle’s Talent Pathway. He was part of a very strong Colts team in 2010 and his mature approach to football during those formative years saw him captain that eventual 2010 Colts Premiership side. Henson broke into the league side in 2012 and after his debut in round 5, ended up playing every game for league including the grand final. His fantastic opening season earned him the WAFL’s Best First Year Player.  A midfielder that can play forward and kick goals, which he demonstrated last week finishing with three majors, will be an important inclusion in tomorrow’s match.

With Henson in to the 25 this week comes Jye Clements, Ben Harding who could make their league debuts, Josh Cuneo and Alex Howson.

Last week’s loss was costly in more ways than one, with Liam Anthony sustaining a hamstring injury which will see him sidelined for up to 6 weeks while Alex Moreno will miss 8 weeks after breaking his hand.

The Sharks will have a tough challenge with up 11 AFL players listed set to boost the Royals side.

The Development League and Colts will be looking to continue last week’s form after dominant wins over West Perth.