Peel Thunder's comeback efforts fell just short with a one-point defeat to Perth on Saturday at Lane Group Stadium.

Peel trailed Perth by 28 points at half time, and despite their best efforts, the home side left their comeback too late.

Fremantle listed players Sam Sturt and Mitch Crowden were named among Peel’s best in their fight to keep Thunder afloat.

Sturt put on a show for Peel and was their leading goal scorer, kicking three goals throughout the contest.

Meanwhile, Mitch Crowden hustled racking up 27 disposals to add to his six marks and five tackles.

It did not take long for Fremantle’s Connor Blakely and Neil Erasmus to link up on the run and set up Peel for a goal in hopes to flip the script.

Erasmus showcased his abilities kicking 1.1 along with 18 disposals.

Blakely’s efforts did not go unnoticed as he contributed 23 disposals, four marks and four tackles.

Karl Worner stayed close to the action with 21 disposals and seven marks. Worner tightened the margin with his goal in the final term.

Fremantle defender Ethan Hughes (20 disposals) displayed his skill by pulling it back for Peel as he shook off two opponents to turn play around.

It was a harsh reality for Peel who were unable to put a stop to Perth’s display following an early lead.

Peel have a bye next weekend and return in round 5 to face South Fremantle on Saturday 21 May.

PEEL THUNDER     4.1  6.3  10.5  13.9 (87)
PERTH FC    6.5  10.7  11.8  13.10 (88)

GOALS
PEEL THUNDER   N Erasmus 1, T Anderson 1, H Matthews 1, S Sturt 3, B Bell 2, J Sears 1, R George 2, R Bennell 1, W Derksen 1
PERTH FC   K Hug 2, S Stubbs 4, K Cary 3, H Busher 1, F McInnes 1, C Jones 1, A Ajang 1

BEST
PEEL THUNDER   T Anderson, S Sturt, B Bell, M Crowden, J Sears
PERTH FC   S Stubbs, A Davis, F McInnes, C McPartland, H Busher