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Freo stars align for Thunder opener

Fremantle star Michael Barlow last played for Peel in 2011 on his return from a broken leg. Pic: Simon Santi/WA News

Experienced Fremantle defender Paul Duffield will play his first WAFL game for Peel in today’s clash with West Perth at HBF Arena.

The 30-year-old, on the comeback trail from injured ribs, has notched 157 games with the Dockers and 77 with South Fremantle since making his WAFL debut for the Bulldogs in 2004.

Coach Cam Shepherd had the luxury of including first-choice Fremantle players Duffield, Michael Barlow and Danyle Pearce for the Thunder’s first match of the season.

The Dockers are not playing their opening game until tomorrow week against Port Adelaide at Domain Stadium.

While Duffield and Pearce are yet to play for the Mandurah-based club, Barlow lined up for Peel in round 13 of the 2011 season in his recovery from a broken leg.

East Perth regained West Coast squad members Fraser McInnes, Simon Tunbridge and Jamie Bennell for today’s clash with Swan Districts at Medibank Stadium.

Swans made no changes to the side which crushed Perth by 96 points in the opening round at Steel Blue Oval last Saturday.

East Fremantle recalled Jayden Schofield and Tom Hooker for the game of the day against Subiaco at East Fremantle Oval.

The Lions regained full-forward Matt Boland and called in 2010 Swan Districts premiership player Brett Robinson.

Bailey Matera, the 18-year-old younger brother of Gold Coast forward Brandon, will make his league debut for South Fremantle against Perth at Lathlain Park.

The Demons recalled experienced pair Chance Bateman and Chris Billings.

Peel, West Perth and Swan Districts will wear black armbands today in memory of Steve Bazzo, who died early yesterday morning after a short battle with cancer.

Bazzo, 45, lined up in 230 games for Swans, the Falcons and the Thunder between 1988 and 2000.

A versatile footballer who made the most of his ability, Bazzo was the last player cut from Swan Districts’ premiership side in 1990.