There were a dozen players in action in the WAFL at the weekend and almost without exception they produced performances to ensure they can build a case for elevation to elite football.
Midfielders, defenders, experienced campaigners and rookies alike put their case with distinction.
Half-backs Lewis Stevenson, Gerrick Weedon and Ashley Smith, midfielder Koby Stevens, forward-ruckman Jeremy McGovern, small forward Brad Dick and tall utility player Simon Tunbridge all gave glowing performances on Saturday.
Stevenson, in particular, and Weedon have produced a sustained run of outstanding form for Claremont and were key contributors in the Tigers’ thumping win over West Perth. Stevenson had 21 possessions and six marks, while Weedon racked up remarkably similar numbers in seriously restricting the impact of a long list of opponents.
McGovern, a rookie-listed player, continues to grow weekly and gathered 19 possessions, 12 marks and four tackles, with his work supplemented by kicking three goals.
Anton Hamp, who is fighting for an opportunity in the Claremont seniors, had 15 touches, took five marks, laid six tackles and kicked three goals in the reserves.
West Perth was outplayed virtually from the outset against the Tigers, though Andrew Strijk performed reasonably well for the Falcons. He had 13 possessions, took four marks and applied three tackles.
East Fremantle dominated against Swan Districts and West Coast-listed players were all in the thick of the action.
Stevens was exceptional as he again demonstrated his appetite for the contest, collected 27 possessions, nine marks and three goals to send the Sharks on their way. He was most destructive in the second term when the game was broken open.
Bradd Dalziell picked up 26 touches and was part of a dominant midfield while Brad Dick continues to grow in confidence and match conditioning, by kicking 4.4 and always looking dangerous in the Sharks’ attacking 50.
Unfortunately, key defender Mitch Brown was injured before quarter-time and took no further part in the match, while Callum Papertalk had a relatively quiet day in the reserves, though he did kick one goal.
Perth carried too much fire-power for Peel and Smith was one of the star performers. He provided strong rebound out of the back half with 20 possessions and four marks, while rookie forward Simon Tunbridge produced one of his best efforts in senior football with 3.3 coming from 14 possessions and seven marks.
His defensive pressure was noticeable and had he converted more accurately would have enhanced his impact.
