West Coast wrapped up their WAFL pre‑season on Saturday afternoon, falling to a powerful Peel Thunder outfit by 93-points in slippery conditions at Mineral Resources Park.
Under overcast skies and light drizzle early, the Eagles fielded a youthful side for their final tune‑up before next week’s season opener. With 25‑minute quarters in place, the home side showed patches of promise but were ultimately outplayed by a cleaner and more experienced Peel unit.
Peel made a fast start, converting twice in the opening minutes before Sascha Kernutt broke through for West Coast with a well‑constructed passage through the corridor, trimming the margin back to seven points.
Charlie Nicholls proved a handful, kicking multiple first‑term goals including a late set shot that sent Peel into quarter time with a 35‑point advantage. West Coast’s defensive group, led by Rhett Bazzo and Caleb Datson, battled hard under consistent heat, but Peel’s ball movement made scoring opportunities difficult to contain.
Kernutt again opened the scoring in the second quarter, narrowing the margin to 30-points, while Bailey Williams imposed himself in the ruck with several strong hit outs and follow‑up efforts.
Peel quickly regained control, with Corey Tregenza sparking a run of goals that pushed the margin beyond 10 majors. Their ability to move the ball cleanly in slippery conditions proved a key difference, as West Coast were repeatedly outnumbered at the contest. By half time, Peel had stretched the lead to 68 points.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with the Thunder maintaining control of the contest. Elijah Hewett worked hard through the midfield and Kernutt continued his strong afternoon, finishing with his third major. But Peel maintained command, generating repeat inside‑50s and extending their lead past 80-points as they ticked into triple‑figures.
The Eagles created chances early in the final term but couldn’t convert, while the Thunder continued to hit the scoreboard at the other end.
A brilliant running finish from Hewett in the closing minutes provided a late highlight for West Coast, showcasing the midfielder’s burst and composure.
Senior defender Tom Cole also impressed with his on‑field leadership, helping guide the developing group through challenging periods of the game.
Peel finished 93-points clear, with the Eagles now shifting their focus to round one. The hit‑out offered valuable learnings for the evolving squad as they prepare to face Perth next Friday at Mineral Resources Park at 2.10pm.
WEST COAST 1.2 2.2 4.3 5.6 (36)
PEEL THUNDER 7.1 13.4 18.5 20.9 (129)
GOALS
West Coast: Kernutt (3), Macrae, Hewett.
Peel Thunder: Tregenza (5), Nicholls (4), Murray (4), Kickett (2), Tardew, Cossor, Whan, Cox, Riddle.
