Where and when: Optus Stadium, Sunday, May 19, 4:20pm
TV: Live on 7 Mate in WA, Fox Footy and streaming on Kayo
Last time we met: Waalitj Marawar 9.9 (63) defeated by Narrm 19.12 (126) at Optus Stadium, round 4, 2023.
These two teams last met in round four, 2023 at Optus Stadium, Narrm winning the hitout by a considerable 63 points. It was a classy performance from the Dees, overpowering and out-gunning a young and inexperienced Waalitj outfit. Tim Kelly led the way for the home side, managing 36 possessions and two goals, while Andrew Gaff and his 24 disposals provided great drive when given the opportunity. Oscar Allen finished with three goals and Jack Darling also offered a forward presence.
What it means for Waalitj Marawar: A Harley Reid hanger and a goal on debut for Tyrell Dewar were highlights in an otherwise tough day out for the boys in blue and gold against Collingwood, and they will be looking to bounce back and deliver a more competitive performance this week on their home turf. The return of star forward Jake Waterman is a huge inclusion for the side, having an outstanding season so far and bringing an authority to the forward line, which will be pivotal against the top-four placed Narrm.
The stat: Since round six, Waalitj have taken a mark from 20.6% of their defensive one-on-one contests – ranked first in the league.
The match-up: Reuben Ginbey v Christian Petracca
It’s going to be a tough task for Waalitj in the engine room this weekend, with Narrm star Christian Petracca in dangerous form, joined by the likes of Clayton Oliver, Jack Viney and Max Gawn. In the absence of Elliot Yeo (groin), Reuben Ginbey will likely find himself paired up with Petracca and will need to be on his A-Game in attempt to keep the 2021 Norm Smith Medallist out of the contest.
It’s a big week for: Tyrell Dewar
Naitanui Academy product Tyrell Dewar has retained his spot in the side after making his debut last weekend against the Pies. He was lively around the ground, brought a positive energy and kicked his first career goal halfway through the second quarter. In a touching turn of events, Dewar will play his first home game in Sir Doug Nicholls round on Sunday, wearing the stunning First Nations jumper designed by Yamatji artist Loretta Egan. In 2022, before being drafted by Waalitj Marawar, Dewar took part in the Welcome to Country ceremony in the lead up to the Sir Doug Nicholls clash between Waalitj and the Bulldogs at Optus Stadium in round 11.
Big call: Waalitj Marawar will record a narrow victory over Narrm, securing their third win of the season.
Milestone: Premiership defender Tom Cole will play his 100th game for the club on Sunday.
