Prior to Saturday, Peel Thunder had won their last six games, including their first victory in a final, and their first premiership.
But their hot streak came to an end when they were dealt a heavy defeat at the hands of South Fremantle on the weekend.
The Bulldogs broke away from the Thunder after the quarter time break, booting nine goals to Peel’s three to romp to a 12.14 (86) to 5.13 (43) win.
Thunder coach Cam Shepherd said his side failed to convert their opportunities.
“I thought we were really good in the first quarter but after that we just didn’t take our chances,” he said.
“I thought South Fremantle were better than us in the middle and were the better side overall.”
The Thunder won their first two games of the season with tackle counts of 60 and 75, with their pressure acts leading the way.
Coach Cam Shepherd said the tackle count dropped off in the weekend’s clash, but the side would look to rectify that moving forward.
“Our tackle count was still a decent enough number but we’d like to have put a bit more pressure on them,” he said.
“We need to practice our goal-kicking and a couple of other things throughout the week, but there won’t be a major adjustment by any means.”
Harley Balic put in another epic performance for the Thunder.
The Fremantle-listed midfielder collected 29 possessions and 11 marks, both team highs, continuing his epic start to the season.
He is likely to be given a debut for the Dockers this coming weekend as a selection overhaul looms at Fremantle.
Brayden Lawler also kept his promising form in tact, gathering 21 touches and booting a goal.
He is averaging 17 touches and just a shade under seven tackles a game throughout the first three matches.
Peel will look to bounce back against Subiaco in a grand final replay this Saturday at Leederville Oval.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
