West Perth have made a bold selection call ahead of their crucial WAFL clash with South Fremantle, dropping small forward Keegan Knott from the squad. The Falcons are still searching for their first victory of the 2026 season after a disappointing start to the campaign.
Struggling Falcons Look for Spark
The winless Falcons have endured a tough run in the early rounds, and coach Darren Harris has opted to shake up the forward line in a bid to ignite the team's scoring potential. Knott, who has struggled for form and consistency, will miss the trip to Fremantle Community Bank Oval.
In his place, West Perth have recalled experienced campaigner Michael Sinclair, who will provide added leadership and a physical presence up forward. Sinclair, a premiership player with the Falcons, has been in solid form in the reserves and will be eager to make an impact at the senior level.
South Fremantle a Formidable Opponent
South Fremantle, meanwhile, are flying high after a strong start to the season. The Bulldogs have won three of their first four matches and sit comfortably inside the top four. Their forward line, led by the prolific Mason Shaw, has been a key factor in their success.
West Perth will need to be at their defensive best to contain Shaw and the Bulldogs' attacking arsenal. The Falcons have conceded more than 100 points in three of their four losses, a trend that must be reversed if they are to spring an upset.
Selection Changes Aim to Turn Tide
In addition to Knott's omission, West Perth have made two other changes to the side that lost to East Perth last week. Midfielder Jake Florenca returns from injury, while young defender Tom Medhat has been handed a debut. The inclusions are aimed at adding both skill and energy to the lineup.
Florenca, a ball-winning midfielder, has been sidelined with a hamstring complaint and will add much-needed class to the Falcons' engine room. Medhat, a product of the club's junior system, has impressed at colts level and will provide a boost to the back six.
Pressure Mounts on Harris
With the Falcons winless after four rounds, the pressure is beginning to mount on coach Darren Harris. The former AFL player has been at the helm since 2022 but has yet to deliver a finals appearance. A loss to South Fremantle would leave West Perth languishing at the bottom of the ladder and facing an uphill battle to revive their season.
Harris, however, remains confident that his side can turn things around. 'We've been competitive in patches, but we haven't been able to sustain it for four quarters,' he said. 'The boys are working hard, and we believe the win is just around the corner.'
The clash between West Perth and South Fremantle is set for Saturday afternoon at Fremantle Community Bank Oval. The Falcons will be hoping to channel the spirit of their 2020 premiership victory over the Bulldogs, but they face a daunting task against a red-hot opponent.
