In a re-match of last year’s grand finalists, the Royals had no answers after a relatively even first quarter and were blown away by the 2013 premiers.
Mark Hutchings, who played for the Falcons in last year’s premiership, has this year returned to East Perth under the WAFL alignment and was one player who maintained his standards and will push for senior selection this week.
Hutchings had 22 possessions, took four marks and laid three tackles in a solid contribution. He capped off his work with a goal.
Hard-nosed utility player Simon Tunbridge also made a strong return after missing two games through injury, kicking three goals from his nine possessions.
In defence, Blayne Wilson was a consistent contributor with 18 possessions and seven marks, while Jacob Brennan had 16 touches, as did Adam Carter.
Up forward, Fraser McInnes had 17 possessions and took four marks, while Ashley Smith (in defence), had 15 touches and five marks.
With a handful of players being elevated to AFL ranks, along with Jeremy McGovern, who travelled as the emergency, the Royals’ depth was tested and they could not match the intensity or class of the Falcons.
Three of the younger members of the squad were elevated to senior ranks, with Malcolm Karpany and Will Maginness making their senior debuts. On a tough day for an initiation, Karpany had 11 disposals while Maginness had a dozen touches.
Dylan Main, who played senior footy with South Fremantle before being drafted, had 11 possessions and took four marks.
In the reserves, developing key position player Rowen Powell had his first hit-out of the season and had eight kicks and five marks.
