Round 5 Match Report

East Fremantle have fallen short to the Perth Demons, a slow start proving costly in the 6.8 (44) to 11.8 (74) loss.

Despite both sides scoring 5.6 after quarter time, it was Perth’s six goal to one opening term that decided the match.

East Fremantle trailed by 30 points at quarter-time and, having reduced the margin to 23-points at the main break, looked to have regained some of their form from the opening three rounds before a two goal to one third term pushed the margin back out.

The Sharks were unable to claw back the deficit as both sides went goal for goal in the final term, with the final 30-point margin unchanged from the quarter time margin.

Head Coach Bill Monaghan would have been extremely disappointed in the performance, losing every key statistic (excluding hit-outs) and falling away from the form which had them in the top 4 at the beginning of the round.

Cameron Eardley was exceptional in the absence of star-recruits Luke English and Josh Schoenfeld. The midfielder recorded a game high 32 disposals along with 5 tackles and 3 inside-50’s to be adjudged the Sharks best player of the day. 

Morgan Davies was impressive in his 50^th WAFL game as he recorded 21 disposals and a goal while Jarrad Jansen’s all-round performance included 20 disposals, 5 tackles, 5 inside 50’s and a goal.

Milan Murdock had a team high 6 tackles alongside 16 disposals and a goal but is unfortunately expected to face an extended stint on the sidelines with a broken leg.

Ruckman Luke Strnadica once again recorded 40 hit-outs in a match for season 2021 and now leads the WAFL in overall hit-outs for the season.

Durak Tucker, Jamie Meade and captain Matthew Jupp battled resolutely in defence and were named amongst the best players on the ground for their performances, having only allowed Perth to score five goals in the final three terms.

Round 6 of the Optus WAFL Premiership Season sees the Sharks take on the West Coast Eagles Reserves at New Choice Homes Park. Bill Monaghan’s side will be looking to return to the winners list against the winless Eagles side and return to the top 5.

Goals:   N Kommer, C Leggett, M Davies, M Murdock, R Lester-smith, J Jansen

Best:     C Eardley, M Jupp, D Tucker, J Meade, M Davies