With an extensive injury list, the numbers of players available at WAFL level is diminished, but the quality of the football from West Coast squad members remains first class.
Defenders Matt Spangher and Beau Wilkes, who have had more than a taste of senior football reminded the match committee of their attributes, while a string of younger players were also under notice.
Wingman Tim Houlihan continues to press his claims, while Koby Stevens, who has played one game in his debut season, and rookie-listed Callum Wilson and Will Sullivan were also under notice.
Three rookies - Ashton Hams, Andrew Strijk and Lewis Stevenson - all played on Saturday against Adelaide and Sullivan is in the best form of his emerging career, while Wilson, who played late last season, is also in good touch.
Claremont v East Fremantle
Ryan Neates
Had the opportunity to play at half-forward and run through the midfield where his work rate was solid. Was at his best in the second quarter when he had eight possessions. In that time had two centre clearances, ran and carried with bounces from wing, and crumbed the ball brilliantly a couple of rimes, including one goal. Will be looking to produce four quarters the equal of that outstanding burst.
Tim Houlihan
In his usual role on the wing started with a steady first quarter which yielded four possessions and a goal. From that point forward he imposed himself on the game, using his pace to good effect, his work rate was excellent and ran hard to receive the ball on the way to a solid four-quarter effort.
Koby Stevens
Used in a variety of roles from the wing to the midfield and half-forward and he was a steady contributor. His best quarter was the third, when he dished out some really good slick handball from contests and his ball use throughout was efficient.
Beau Wilkes
Displayed his versatility in playing successfully at either end of the ground, utilised at centre half-back for about 60 percent of the game and the balance at centre half-forward where he kicked two goals. He was strong in the air, often as the third player up in marking contests. His use of the ball was sound and he provided plenty of running rebound from the back 50. He was very good in all contests.
Matt Spangher
Outstanding in both key defensive positions, Spangher was opposed to both Chad Jones and Crawford for periods. He was very good defensively, competing well in the air and winning several one on one contests. His disposal rate was lower than usual, due to the role that he played (deep back) but he used the ball well and attempted to run off on most occasions. He was one of East Fremantle’s better players.
Gerrick Weedon (reserves)
Had periods at centre half-forward and through the midfield and had six possessions in the opening term. Then had a further 10 possessions for the game, six of them in the second quarter when playing in the middle. Didn’t quite impose himself on the game.
South Fremantle v West Perth
Callum Wilson
In very poor conditions Wilson worked hard all night at centre half-forward. He presented strongly and handled the ball well in the conditions. He covered a lot of ground, at times getting possession on the half back line. Was also used in the ruck at boundary throw-ins where his body work was very good. Prodyced a solid four-quarter effort.
Perth v Swan Districts
Will Sullivan
Produced one of his best efforts at WAFL level, with improved attention to his second efforts. His movement to position at stoppages, timing and intent in marking contest and his ruck work was first class. He ran hard through the corridor and his positioning to receive the ball was excellent.
Tony Notte
Playing deep in the Swan Districts attacking area opposed to Sibosado, Tony started brilliantly in the first quarter, but could not sustain the effort.