Experienced midfielders Matt Rosa, Kane Lucas and Mark Hutchings continued to press for a senior opportunity, despite East Perth losing to Fremantle affiliate Peel yesterday.

Rosa, in his first hit-out in six weeks after hamstring problems, Lucas and Hutchings were among the best for the Royals, particularly in the first half.

Unfortunately, after leading by a goal at three quarter time, the Royals faded and Peel slammed on seven goals in the final term to win by 22 points.

Lucas had 30 possessions and seven marks, using the ball well and working hard both ways, while Rosa, on restricted game time, had 27 possessions and six marks, playing largely across half-back. Hutchings had 24 touches and four tackles in a typically hard working effort.

In attack, Murray Newman was ubiquitous and could have had a big impact had he been more accurate, finishing with 1.4, but his defensive efforts inside the forward 50 were important. East Perth was down on key position talent, so Rowen Powell played a key attacking role and kicked three goals.

In defence, Jamie Bennell was particularly effective in the first half, while Paddy Brophy was solid throughout. Both players had 15 disposals.

Another midfielder, Brant Colledge, was strong throughout with 17 possessions and five marks, while small forward Malcolm Karpany had only nine possessions.

In the reserves Damien Cavka continued to build, with 20 possessions, five marks and three goals in 80 minutes’ game time, while Corey Adamson, playing midfield and forward, maintained his consistency and a case for a senior chance with the Royals. 

He had 20 possessions and took three marks, while also pumping the ball inside attacking 50 on five occasions.

Dylan Main, who has been restricted by a back injury, also played just 80 minutes in his second match back and had 18 touches.

With this game fixtured for Sunday and the club’s next AFL match scheduled against Richmond at the MCG on Friday night, several players – including emerging tall defender Tom Barrass, first year half-back Jackson Nelson, ruckman Scott Lycett and key forward Fraser McInnes – were rested.

On top of that, Alec Waterman was ill and could not play.