Dom Sheed, the club’s No.1 draft selection last November, continues to build a compelling case for a return to elite football with remarkable WAFL form at East Perth.

After playing in the opening round of the season against the Western Bulldogs as the substitute, Sheed has spent the last couple of matches in the WAFL and he has been outstanding. When the Royals eclipsed South Fremantle on Friday by 75 points, he was ubiquitous.

The young midfielder, who hails from the football-rich Goldfields city of Kalgoorlie, collected 25 possessions and kicked two goals in a dominant display.

With a number of ‘sore’ players battling the bruises of a rugged AFL encounter with St Kilda, Sheed will be on the shortlist of possible replacements, should openings exist.

There were many others who did their selection prospects no harm either, with another midfielder, Mark Hutchings, making a conspicuous return in East Perth colours, while some of his teammates laid claims for other positions around the ground.

The defensive effort of the Royals was built around the strength and class of Jeremy McGovern, who took 10 marks and had 18 disposals at full-back. Originally a forward, he has been re-badged in the back half and is giving the match committee something to ponder.

Around him, veteran Sam Butler was outstanding with 32 possessions, and Blayne Wilson, Ash Smith, Jacob Brennan and Adam Carter were part of an impenetrable defensive unit, although Carter did spend some through the middle.

Pat McGinnity also had his share of the ball with 22 touches, while up forward and in the ruck Scott Lycett was a telling factor, Josh Hill pushed his name forward with three goals and Fraser McInnes continues to grow in stature.

A couple of the younger players are also putting pressure on for elevation from the reserves. Dylan Main and Will Maginness were particularly prominent and are building towards senior football with the Royals.