Sharks defeat Swans in low-scoring thriller

The East Fremantle Sharks have returned to the winner list in emphatic fashion, defeating the much-fancied Swan Districts in Round 17 of the Optus WAFL Premiership Season.

The Sharks kicked the first five goals of the match, opening at 31-point lead mid-way through the second term in what was a low scoring affair.

The Swans were able to recover however, kicking five of the next six goals to level the scores with just a minute remaining in the match.

East Fremantle fought back with Jonathon Marsh (two goals, 11 disposals) snapping truly from 20 metres out to give the Sharks the lead with time running out.

The Sharks were able to win the final centre clearance of the game and score a crucial behind courtesy of Michael Tassone, putting the margin above a goal and meaning the Sharks were able to return to the winners list.

East Fremantle’s 7.4 (46) to 5.9 (39) victory was able to keep the Sharks in 6th spot on the ladder and will prove to be a great confidence booster heading into the second Fremantle Derby of the season, this time at Community Bank Oval.

Sharks recruit Luke English was adjudged the PetraClean Player of the Day. The Sharks recruit has averaged over 22 disposals, two marks and almost a goal a game since joining the blue and white. He continued his impressive form line, kicking a crucial goal early on the game to go with 25 disposals (team best), 12 clearances and four tackles.

The midfield trio of Tom Bennett, Michael Tassone and Kyle Baskerville combined for 61 disposals, 11 tackles and 17 clearances while Max Murphy (10 disposals, four tackles) was named amongst the best on ground for his performance in defence.

Luke Strnadica continues to shine in his first season as the number one ruckman, recording 39 hit outs in addition to 19 disposals and crucial final term goal. The ruckman is leading WAFL hit outs, 78 clear of second place and has kicked the second most goals of any ruckman in the competition.

The Sharks face a tough challenge this weekend, taking on South Fremantle in the second derby of the season at Community Bank Oval. Bill Monaghan’s side will be looking to continue their good form discovered against the Swans and taste derby victory for the first time in five years.

Goals: 2 - J Marsh 1 - L Strnadica, T Bockman, D O’Reilly, L English, M Tassone

Best: L English, M Murphy, M Jupp, T Bennett, M Tassone