Peel Thunder have won back-to-back premierships after defeating Subiaco in the WAFL Grand Final by 16-points at Subiaco Oval on Sunday.
Despite a close contest and tough conditions, the Thunder were victorious over the Lions finishing 11.6 (72) to 7.14 (56).
Peel Thunder coach Cam Shepherd had only praise for his team.
“I’m really proud of the 50 players that played for Peel Thunder this year and it shows that we’re really one unit,” he said.
“You can see how the boys really enjoy each other’s company, it’s a great feeling.”
Retiring defender Zac Dawson gave Peel Thunder an early lead, kicking the opening goal of the match within the first five minutes.
The Thunder then booted two more goals, giving them a five-point-lead over Subiaco at the first break.
Subiaco were able to hold the Thunder goalless for more than 20 minutes of the third term, until Josh Deluca and Matt Taberner hit the scoreboard late in the quarter.
The final term saw the Thunder run away with a 16-point victory over Subiaco, with Griffin Logue scoring the last goal of the game on the siren.
Coach Cam Shepherd said he was pleased with how his team reacted to his message at three-quarter-time.
“We really addressed the fact that we’ve got 30 minutes to achieve greatness… they embraced it and played accordingly,” Shepherd said.
He applauded Ryan Nyhuis on his defensive role on one of Subiaco’s most dangerous forwards.
“He’s been outstanding in this role against a quality player,” he said.
“Ryan’s job on Liam Ryan goes an enormous way to getting the result we achieved today.”
15 Fremantle Dockers played a role in Peel Thunder’s victory and were thrilled to have been involved in the win.
Young ruckman Sean Darcy dominated in the ruck all day, winning a career high 73 hit-outs.
Luke Ryan was awarded the Simpson’s medal as the best on ground for his incredible performance in defence, with 23 disposals and 8 marks.
Fellow teammate Garrick Ibbotson was impressed with Ryan’s performance in his side’s win.
“He’s a ripper, he’s a mature aged rookie, and he is a fantastic player and will be for a long time,” he said.
“He reads the ball really well and he’s got an awesome kick on him.”
After playing what may be his final WAFL game at senior level, Ibbotson said he was glad Peel got the win.
“It was a good way to finish at least,” he said.
“It was a bit of a different build up during the week, knowing it could be my last game, but to be able to finish the way we did was the perfect send-off.”
Ibbotson said he has enjoyed his time playing for Peel..
“I’ve loved it, all the boys are terrific, obviously there was a few that missed out today, but I’ve played with a lot of them over the course of the year,” he said.
“They’re all good people and I can’t wait to celebrate with them today.”
