Sharks battle the Demons in Andrew Stephen's 100th

After some soul searching during the week the Sharks boys have their eyes firmly set on the Perth Demons this Saturday at Lathlain Park.  In a must win game for both sides, our boys have prepared well and are looking to turn a three game losing streak in to a celebration for one of East Fremantle’s favourite sons in Andrew Stephen (pictured left in 2009 and 2014), who will run out in his 100^th game for East Fremantle.  “Stevo’s” story is a great one of perseverance, determination, preparation and passion. 

With over 50 games of Colts and over 50 games of Reserves football, Andrew finally made his League debut in 2008, coincidently against Perth, and ended the year playing 2 games.  Building his reputation as one of the League’s best small defenders, Andrew was selected in the WAFL State team in both 2012 and 2013 where that 2013 team went on to beat the Vics for the first time in over 20 years.  At the end of the 2013 Andrew was rewarded for those years of hard work, by winning his first Lynn Medal (joint with Rory O’Brien), an achievement that his father Peter also made in 1969.  In doing so Andrew and his father created history by becoming the first father/son combination to win the prestigious award. 

In 2014 Andrew was also rewarded with being named the Club’s Vice Captain. Everyone at the Club is very proud of Andrew and all he has achieved and we wish him good luck for his 100^th game.

Tim Bristow will make his debut for the Sharks on Saturday.  Tim moved across from Launceston in the Tasmanian State League and has made an immediate impression with the Club and fellow players.  His energy and team oriented approach to everything he has done since arriving is a credit to him.  Mitch Boyle also returns to the side after an impressive game in the Reserves, gathering 25 possessions and 11 clearances.  Other ins on an extended bench include James Bristow, Jordan Dorotich and Tom Hooker.  Out of the side from the Swans defeat are Sean Henson and Richie Bourne.

The Reserves are looking to continue their recent form streak by winning five in a row this weekend.  There are a number of players in excellent form and will continue to put pressure on the League squad.  Lively forwards Tom Bowey and Louis Cronan will look to keep feasting off opportunities created by the talls.  Aidan Tropiano and Jake Schleicher hope to feed of the improving ruck in Jake Solomon and the resolute defence will continue to spoil, tackle and lock down on their opponents.

And in the first game of the day the Colts’ will hope for a better showing after suffering their worst defeat of the season at the hands of a very “big” Swans outfit.  We wish Jack Cripps all the best, after being selected in the State 18’s team to play their final trial game prior to the 18’s Championships commencing.

Good luck to all teams… onward to victory