Deployed as the substitute player in his first senior match of the season against Hawthorn, he made way for champion on-baller Daniel Kerr against Melbourne, but showed his mental aptitude with a classy display for the Sharks.
His 32-possession effort played a significant part in eclipsing the previously undefeated Perth by two points.
Dalziell was strong and consistent throughout and was ably assisted by teammate Brad Dick, who kicked three goals from just eight possessions, playing largely as a deep forward. That was Dick’s first league match of the season and was most encouraging.
There were four West Coast players in the Perth line-up and each of them made worthwhile contributions, though the most eye-catching came from tall forward Fraser McInnes.
After a slow start to the season, largely due to an interrupted pre-season, McInnes played his best game of 2013 with 23 possessions, nine marks, five tackles and two goals. He worked hard when the ball hit the deck and was one of the most influential players on the ground.
In addition to the performance of McInnes, the Demons were well served by defender Ash Smith, youngster Brant Colledge and utility player Simon Tunbridge.
Smith had 22 possessions and took eight marks across half-back, but did spend some time opposed to Dick when his West Coast teammate had an impact on the game.
Colledge, in his senior debut, had 11 possessions and four marks and has laid a solid foundation to his future, while Tunbridge, resuming from suspension, played through the midfield and forward, in a role change.
While adjusting to new position, he managed 17 possessions, seven marks and five tackles, showing enough to suggest he could adapt to the midfield requirements.
West Perth workhorse Mark Hutchings continued his outstanding start to the season with another commanding display in West Perth’s dominant display against Peel.
Hutchings, despite a tight tag, had 28 possessions with a 50-50 split between kicks and handballs, took four marks and laid five tackles. He was again effective around stoppages and continues to press claims for senior selection.
Youngster Adam Carter again played reserves for South Fremantle and must be pushing for his senior debut after another solid 20-plus possession display off half-back and through the midfield.
In the Friday night game that kicked off the round, tough utility player Pat McGinnity enjoyed a solid return after missing the opening three games with a back injury. He had only 10 touches off half-back, but was strong in defence and pushed hard forward in the last quarter to kick a nice goal.
