Round 12 Match Report: East Perth vs Swan Districts

East Perth vs Swan Districts Match Report
by Liam Maher

Round 12 saw the Royals suffer their third loss of the season, falling to Swan Districts at Steel Blue Oval. The game came down to the wire with the Swans narrowly clinching victory just before the final siren, East Perth 11.12 (78) to Swan Districts 12.7 (79). 

It was a close encounter right from the start. East Perth’s usually fast-paced game style was restricted early by the Swans. The Royals were forced to employ precise kicking from slow build-up play to go forward. After finding their rhythm, East Perth showcased impressive ball movement, with fluid transition of the ball from defensive 50 to forward 50 leading to goals in the first quarter.  

Stan Wright played a pivotal role off the backline in his return from injury. His elite ball use and defensive work rate to win one-on-one battles were impressive in a stand-out performance. Angus Schumacher’s ability to break lines and get the ball forward out of stoppages was also crucial in setting up attacking play in the first quarter.  

Swan Districts used the handball to work their way through East Perth’s defence. They had 20 more handballs for the quarter (44-24) and 26 more disposals (97-71). Despite not having as much of the ball, the Royals took their opportunities to be up a goal at quarter time (3.3 – 21 to 2.3 15). 

The second quarter was a strong display from East Perth, and the effort and pressure from the team was evident as the Royals begun to take control of the game. The midfield capitalized on ruckman Scott Jones’ hit-out dominance and started winning the ball at the source. After a quiet start, Mitch Crowden stood up and created multiple chances going forward. Jayden Peak also had some impressive moments this quarter, laying a strong tackle on the wing which led to a goal for Tom Medhat. 

Both teams gave away free kicks on the back of contentious plays. Unfortunately for the Royals, several of those free kicks gave Swan Districts the opportunity to score and stay in the game. Swan Districts found two goals late in the quarter to reduce the margin and stay in touching distance at half time, training the Royals by 14 points (6.6 – 42 to 4.4 – 28). 

The third quarter started with the same high intensity as the second. East Perth started the quarter well but were unable to convert their opportunities in front of goals. The Royals kicked five behinds for the quarter as Swan Districts gained momentum. 

The Swans’ physicality and work rate around the ground made it hard for East Perth to compete. The Royals game style started to fall away, with their inefficiency to hit a target inside 50 and lack of run around the ground meaning they were unable to kick any majors for the term. 

Swan Districts had the better quarter, however great defensive acts from Harrison Macreadie and Nathan Eaton kept the margin close. East Perth trailed by eight points heading into the final term (6.11 – 47 to 8.7 – 55). 

Liam Tedesco scored the first as play resumed and the Royals looked to gain control back in the game. Both teams opted for a strong and physical game style as they tried to outwork one another. Swan Districts eventually pulled away to a 13-point lead with around five minutes left to play. 

A resurgence, led by two consecutive goals from Christian Ameduri, saw the Royals fight back into the game. The co-captain was crucial in the potential comeback with seven disposals, three tackles, and two goals in the final term. Shayne Hille also stood tall in the late stages of the game, as he kicked two clutch goals, including a set shot in the final minutes which gave East Perth a five-point lead. 

With little time left on the clock, both teams threw everything at the contest. A late ball forward from Swan Districts was able to find the goal as Thomas Edwards converted a free kick in the forward pocket. The siren sounded seconds later, concluding one of the most thrilling WAFL matches in recent memory. 

East Perth will feel disappointed with the result of the game. They had their chances to win but ultimately a poor third quarter and some undisciplined moments saw the win slip away from them. 

Stan Wright was a standout player all day in his first game back from injury accumulating 25 disposals including 17 kicks, five marks and four Inside 50’s in his role off half back. Scott Jones was also at his best this game as he amassed 62 hit-outs to accompany five tackles and a goal. Michael Randall was also fantastic through the midfield, collecting 24 disposals and five Inside 50’s. 

East Perth sits 2nd of the league ladder with just over half the season played. The Royals are back at home for their next game against South Fremantle. Get down and the support the black & blue at 2.40pm on Saturday June 29th at Sullivan Logistics Stadium!