Drought ends for Tigers

Claremont broke their duck and moved off the bottom of the WAFL ladder with a scrappy 19-point win over West Perth today.

The Tigers were up by 44 points a minute into the second half and appeared poised to cruise to a substantial victory before the Falcons threatened their second boilover in six days.

West Perth came back hard to get within range but their inaccuracy in the last term, when they kicked 2.8, gave Claremont enough breathing space to get home, 12.11 (83) to 8.16 (64).

Claremont coach Michael Broadbridge implored his players at three quarter time to compete for the full 30 minutes but the game remained alive until Kepler Bradley goaled from the boundary line.

Both teams lost important midfielders before the game with Claremont captain Jake Murphy (ankle) and West Perth prime mover Andrew Strijk (groin) late withdrawals.

Claremont brought in Mitch Andrews who did the bulk of the ruck work but occasionally was part of a full-forward line that included fellow giants Mark Seaby and Bradley.

Claremont full-back Brandon Franz was a tower of strength, keeping opponent Michael Lourey to two touches until the last break then moving to Matt Fowler when he loomed dangerously in the last term.

Seaby was rusty but his class was evident while Andrews’ energy was undoubted as he made the most of the late call-up.

West Perth’s potent midfield won plenty of the ball but like their opponents, were unable to find consistent avenues into attack.

Aaron Black (33 disposals) and Shane Nelson (27) were busy but Aidan Lynch, who won eight clearances, was equally effective.