A dominant performance by Fremantle midfielder Clancee Pearce helped Peel Thunder improve their finals chances with a 22-point win over Claremont on Saturday.

After being omitted from the Fremantle side for the first time this season, Pearce made a strong statement with 40 disposals and a crucial goal.

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Despite leading for most of the day, the Thunder found themselves a goal down at three-quarter time.

But two crucial goals from Fremantle forward Zac Clarke and a late solo effort from Pearce carried the Thunder to a 13.11 (89) to 9.13 (67) victory.

Wholesale changes at Fremantle also saw Tendai Mzungu and Paul Duffield line up for Peel.

Pearce said competition for a spot at Fremantle was fierce.

“As you can see, if you don’t play well one week, you can be out of the side,” Pearce said.

“It’s a healthy thing for the Fremantle footy club. Hopefully I can get back in.”

Pearce said it was a challenge to return to the WAFL.

“But I tried to put that behind me and just really play my part for the team,” Pearce said.

“Just [need] to keep performing here at Peel [and] not drop my head that I’m back down here.”

Fremantle midfielders Ed Langdon and Connor Blakely edged closer to AFL selection with 31 and 30 disposals respectively.

Meanwhile, Fremantle defender Alex Silvagni returned from a hamstring injury through Peel’s reserves, racking up 13 possessions in a one-sided contest.

The win puts Peel equal second on the ladder ahead of a clash with Swan Districts at Bendigo Bank Stadium on Sunday.