Peel Thunder’s chances of finishing in the top three and securing a double chance in the WAFL finals series were dealt a significant blow when they lost by 32 points to fellow alignment club East Perth on Sunday.

The 8.14 (62) to 13.16 (94) loss saw the Thunder relinquish third spot to the Royals, who were never troubled after they kicked the opening three goals of the game at Bendigo Bank Stadium.

Clancee Pearce toiled hard for the hosts, gathering 38 disposals in his first outing with the Thunder in a month.

Clancee returns strong in WAFL

Fremantle defender Paul Duffield said Pearce showed some good signs as he sought to regain his spot in Freo's line-up.

“I think he is always around the mark one way or another,” he said.

“He’s been strong when he has come back and played so that is a great response from him.”

Youngsters Ed Langdon, Jacob Ballard and Brady Grey combined for 84 disposals and one goal between them, and Duffield said they had been “outstanding” for the Thunder.

“All those young crew have been fantastic with how they have handled themselves and the footy they have played this year,” he said.

“They are right in the mix.”

Duffield said the Thunder missed an opportunity to beat another finals contender and the last two games of the home and away season would now be crucial.

“We had a few opportunities that we didn’t make the most of,” he said.

“I thought their (East Perth) ball use was a real feature, and we couldn’t really get it off them once they had it which makes it a long, tough day.

“With two to go, if we win those we have a chance to play some finals which will be fantastic.”

The Thunder head to Lathlain Park next Saturday to take on Perth, who sit at the bottom of the WAFL ladder.