Thunder gatecrash Royals party

Peel Thunder has spoilt Craig Wulff’s 250-game milestone celebrations with a 23-point victory over East Perth at Medibank Stadium today.

The Thunder managed just two goals in a hotly contested first half, but booted seven goals to three after the long break to take the game away from the Royals.

The visitors had to do with one man down in the second half after Colin Sylvia failed to emerge from the rooms with concussion, prevailing 9.16 (70) to 7.5 (47) Veteran Brendon Jones (27 disposals), Fremantle regular Tendai Mzungu (27 touches) led the way for their young teammates, while Docker pair Brady Grey and Alex Pearce were brilliant in defence.

Pearce was reported in the third quarter for front on contact on Callum Sinclair, who had his first game time since injuring his finger during the pre-season.

Rookie Jacob Ballard (29 possessions) and Gerald Ugle (21 touches, four inside 50s, one goal) was also prominent.
Jon Griffin got the better of his ruck battle with Paul Johnson.

For East Perth, developing West Coast midfielder Brant Colledge was brilliant with 38 disposals, seven inside 50s and two goals, Brendan Lee battled hard with 28 possessions of his own.

Gary Moss played on despite copping a knee to the ribs in a marking contest early in the third term.

Peel were simply too good after quarter time. They dominated play but did not convert until after half time when they ran away with the upset victory - their third straight this season.