WAFL Match Report: Round Five v Peel

by Liam Maher

East Perth responded emphatically following last week’s loss, powering to a convincing 38-point win over Peel Thunder in their Round Five WAFL clash at Sullivan Logistics Stadium. Playing with hunger and intensity throughout the match, the Royals ran out 86 (13.8) to 48 (7.6) winners in front of a home crowd, seeking to avenge last year’s Grand Final defeat.

The game began as an even contest, with both sides trading possessions and feeling out the conditions. Possession was split evenly at 86 apiece, reflecting the tight nature of the opening term. The weather presented challenges as it shifted throughout the quarter, forcing players to constantly adjust. However East Perth set the tone with their pressure around the ball, which gave them a slight early edge.

The return of Stan Wright injected energy into the line-up as he had nine first-quarter possessions. The build-up attacking play from the back to forward helped East Perth create opportunities at goal in the first quarter. This saw the Royals take a four-point lead into the first break (2.1 – 13) to (1.3 – 9).

East Perth began to pull away in the second term as they tightened their structures and moved the ball with confidence. Their clean disposal and superior ball use allowed them to control territory and dictate the pace. The Royals scored three unanswered goals through the middle of the quarter, creating some separation from Peel.

Strong marks inside the forward 50 were capitalised on by Mitch Schofield and Ben Middleton, who both converted their chances. A highlight of the quarter came from Will Cassidy, who kicked a potential goal-of-the-year from the pocket with a brilliant, classy finish. This capped a brilliant first half for the Royals, heading into halftime with a 10-point lead (5.2 – 32) to (3.4 – 22).

The wind picked up at the start of the third quarter, and Peel responded with a challenge of their own. The visitors applied scoreboard and physical pressure early, but East Perth remained composed and absorbed the challenge well. Every contest was hard-fought, and the Royals had to work to maintain their composure against the strong efforts from the opposition.

Once again, their ball movement gave them the edge, breaking open the game when it mattered. Late goals before the siren swung the momentum firmly in East Perth’s favour heading into the final term. Another three to two goal quarter gave the Royals a 15 point lead headed into the final term (8.3 – 51) to (5.6 – 36).

The Royals came out firing in the last quarter and took full control of the match. They dominated possession across the ground and repeatedly punished Peel on the counterattack. The effort, class, and run that had defined their performance all day were on display until the final siren.

East Perth’s ability to finish strong was a statement of intent — this was a top-tier performance from a team with serious aspirations. It was the kind of finish expected of a premiership contender. Finishing the game in a dominant style saw the Royals run out the game 38-point winners (13.8 – 86) to (7.6 – 48).

Hamish Brayshaw led from the front with a commanding captain’s performance (32 disposals, six marks, eight marks, one goal). Angus Scott was also among the best on ground with a game-high 39 disposals, including 11 inside 50s. Up forward, Ben Middleton, Will Cassidy, and Mitch Schofield all kicked two goals apiece, capitalising on the great attack play from their teammates. Xavier Milner was the standout defender on the day (10 disposals, five marks, one goal).

This was a significant win for East Perth. If they can build on this momentum, East Perth could be one of the teams to beat in 2025. The next game against West Coast will prove to be another challenge, but one the Royals will be ready to meet head on. The game is on Saturday, May 10th at 11.10 am at Mineral Resources Park.