Subiaco held on to beat Peel Thunder by one point in a dramatic WAFL clash at Leederville Oval on Saturday, after the visitors stormed home with five goals in the final quarter.
The Lions led by 38 points at the last change, but Peel kicked five unanswered goals to hit the front with just minutes remaining. However, Subiaco steadied to kick a late behind and secure a thrilling 12.10 (82) to 12.9 (81) victory.
Match Summary
Subiaco looked in complete control for most of the game, with their midfield dominance and forward pressure proving too much for Peel. Key forward Ben Sokol kicked three goals, while ruckman Lachlan Delahunty was influential around the ground.
Peel, however, refused to give in. Led by the likes of Mitch Crowden and Nathan Wilson, the Thunder lifted their intensity in the final term. Crowden kicked two goals in the last quarter, including one that put Peel ahead with five minutes to play.
Final Quarter Drama
With the scores level and time ticking down, Subiaco midfielder Leigh Kitchin marked inside 50 and kicked the ball towards goal. It fell short, but the Lions managed to force a behind, giving them the lead. Peel had one last chance to snatch victory, but a long-range shot from Wilson drifted wide.
Subiaco coach Beau Wardman praised his side's resilience. “It was a game of two halves,” he said. “We were outstanding for three quarters, but credit to Peel, they came hard. We showed great character to hang on in the end.”
Peel coach Cam Shepherd was left to rue his team's slow start. “We gave ourselves too much to do,” he said. “But I'm proud of the fight we showed in the last quarter. We nearly pulled off a miracle.”
Key Performances
- Ben Sokol (Subiaco) – 3 goals, 12 disposals
- Lachlan Delahunty (Subiaco) – 18 disposals, 35 hit-outs
- Mitch Crowden (Peel) – 2 goals, 22 disposals
- Nathan Wilson (Peel) – 1 goal, 27 disposals
The win keeps Subiaco in the top four, while Peel remain in the lower half of the ladder. Both teams will look to build on their performances next round.
