Peel Thunder get huge boost of AFL experience ahead of Subiaco clash

Fremantle’s decision to axe players from the senior line-up in order to rebuild with youth has landed Peel Thunder with a bundle of seasoned AFL veterans.

Zac Dawson, Nick Suban, Cam Sutcliffe and Darcy Tucker are all named as inclusions to Peel’s squad, with Danyle Pearce, Jon Griffin and Matt Taberner chances to play after being named as emergencies for the Dockers.

Harley Balic, Griffin Logue, Hayden Crozier and Tom Sheridan will come out of the side due to Fremantle selection

Balic, who leads the WAFL in disposals, could prove to be a huge loss for a Peel side looking to get back on the winners’ list.

But the Thunder can rest assured their defence will be a stout one, with Zac Dawson and Sam Collins holding down the fort.

Peel will look to improve to a 3-1 record with a win against the Lions, who are coming off a victory over West Perth last week.

The midfield battle will be a tantalising one for the fans. 

Subiaco comes into the game with Leigh Kitchin in fine form (28 disposals, one goal against West Perth) and the perennial powerhouse Kyal Horsley by his side.

Lachlan Delahunty is named on a half-forward flank but was great gathering touches for the Lions last week, while Christopher Phelan finished with a game-high 31 possessions.

Peel will look to counter the Lions’ potency with youngster Traye Bennell in hot form, alongside reliable players like Rory O’Brien and Gerald Ugle.

Darcy Tucker could also add some dash to a midfield that will be without Balic for the first time in 2017.

Sean Darcy was perhaps stiff to miss out on a Dockers debut given his form in the WAFL. 

The Peel ruckman leads the league in hit outs with 100 from his first three matches, and has been solid around the ground.

His role in keeping the ball out of the hands of a dominant Subiaco midfield will be vital to the Thunder in this game.

Saturday, 12.05pm, Leederville Oval