Wednesday 15 June – Victor George Kailis Oval, Cockburn ARC

The match was the culmination of a four week training block that was originally scheduled as a curtain raiser to the Fremantle v Hawthorn game. A spate of inclement weather and heavy downpours resulted in the game being moved away from Optus Stadium.

NGA Coach Roger Hayden was joined in the coaching ranks by past NGA graduates Keanu Haddow and former South Fremantle player Paul Mugambwa.  

With pressure high from the first bounce it was Fremantle that were able to settle first after a scrappy opening five minutes and were able to get the early jump on their opposition kicking three first quarter goals. Taj Smith and Joel Merritt were providing excellent rebound from defence while Ricky Ninyette and Khyan Townsend provided an excellent mix off attack and defence through the midfield.  

As a result of fierce tackling and the ability to drive the ball deep into attack forwards Basil Hart and Ryda Luke were able to reap the rewards.

West Coast then kicked up a level after the first break and dominated proceedings for the next two quarters kicking five goals to one. Taj Smith continued to work hard whilst Jack Spence and Tai Morrison also showed that they are players to watch. Tyrrell Bropho worked his way into the game during this period showing off his electric speed to great effect.

The last quarter was a bit of an arm wrestle with the highlight being Ricky Ninyette kicking a goal following a terrific piece of transition play that saw the ball move quickly from one end of the ground to the other.

Overall it was another great opportunity for the players to have a quality game against talented opposition with the prospect of players being selected for higher honours pending on the AFL being able to schedule an interstate fixture.  

Goal Scorers: Kaleb Walley, Ryda Luke, Basil Hart, Lattrell May, Ricky Ninyette