Peel Thunder will look to maintain their spot in the WAFL’s top five when they take on the third-placed Swan Districts this weekend.
The Thunder was able to break a four game losing streak and return to the top five with an impressive win over Claremont last weekend, and will look to make it two in a row against a tough opponent this time around.
The talking points
1. Peel’s leaders
Peel Thunder snapped a four-game skid last weekend, thanks in large to huge performances from their leaders. Gerald Ugle led the way with four goals, while Rory O’Brien (29 disposals) and Leroy Jetta (three goals) were impressive. It’s hard to judge what Fremantle-listed players Peel will take into games with them each week as the Dockers rotate their side during a rebuild, so the Thunder rely on big games from their own veterans to see them over the line. Names like O’Brien, Ugle, Jetta and Blair Bell will need to be even better this week to beat Swans.
2. The new Swans
Last year wasn’t a memorable season for Swan Districts fans. They languished at the foot of the table, suffering a number of defeats and weren’t necessarily feared by any opponent. How things change, though. Now, Swans have started 2017 with an impressive 5-2 record and are playing a strong brand of team football. The strain on skipper Matt Riggio has been eased with a number of teammates offering healthy contributions and they pose a serious threat to Peel Thunder this weekend.
3. Collins in form
Sam Collins has been Peel Thunder’s most consistent performer this season, and again was unlucky not to receive a Fremantle call-up this week. While Peel Thunder will be hoping to see one of their favourite Dockers get his chance at the top soon, I’m certain they enjoy being able to lean on Collins to lead to their defence each week. The former Box Hill Hawk has barely lost a contest all year and will again be vital to Peel’s chances of winning this weekend.
Key match-up
Swan Districts boast a high-octane midfield led by captain Matt Riggio, Aaron Faulkner and Jesse Turner. They will be contested by players like Rory O’Brien and Traye Bennell in what looms as a tantalising battle between roving brigades. It’s unclear as to what Dockers will suit up for Peel yet, but the possible inclusions of either Danyle Pearce, Tom Sheridan or Nick Suban would go a long way to helping Peel over the line.
Fixture
Bendigo Bank Stadium, Saturday, 1.40pm