Peel Thunder prospect shines in first state game

The Peel Thunder draft prospect was immaculate in defence helping WA to a thrilling, one-point win over South Australia.

The Black Swans led by 31 points at the final change but the South Australians mounted a huge charge at their lead and got within striking distance.

But WA remained composed enough to eek out a win by the slimmest of margins.

Naughton was a standout in defence for the West, teaming with fellow key defender Sam Taylor to earn a spot in the best players.

The Peel product’s ability to rebound out of the back line sparked much of WA’s early runs and led to a number of scoring opportunities for the Black Swans.

He was also forced to defend against South Australian gun Darcy Fogarty, who is considered a contender to be the number one draft pick.

Naughton held his own against the skilled utility player, keeping Fogarty relatively quiet in the time he was matched up on him.

WA coach Peter Sumich said the pressure applied during the first three quarters and then again in the last 10 minutes was the key to victory.

“The boys were outstanding with the tackling and pressure and that’s really what got them there in the end,” he said.

“They lapsed for 10 or 15 minutes in the last quarter but to their credit they fought back which was really good. It’s about learning from that now and responding next time it comes up.”

Naughton has played seven colts games for Peel so far in 2017.

FULL TIME

WA 10.14 (74) defeat SA 10.13 (73)

BEST

WA: Ainsworth, Taylor, Joyce, Naughton, Frampton, Young

SA: Rozee, Coleman-Jones, Howson, Edwards, Rankine, McCarthy

GOALS

WA: Allen 3,  Stewart 2, Hill, Stack, Ainsworth, Starcevich, Young 1

SA: Rankine, Houlahan, Fogarty 2, Rowe, Giro, Rozee, Lukosius 1