With 19 players competing at WAFL level over the weekend, there was no shortage of players putting their hand up for an opportunity for the club’s last AFL match before mid-season break.

At the top of the list was West Coast’s top draft selection from 2008, Nic Naitanui, but he is not the only one laying claim to a senior opportunity.

Beau Wilkes was close to best afield at centre half-forward for Claremont, rookie Lewis Stevenson was also in eye-catching touch for the Tigers, while Brett Jones finished strong.
  
Will Schofield was also under notice in the key attacking post for Peel while Mark Seaby was influential for West Perth. Adam Cockie staked his claims for re-elevation to the senior list and Chad Fletcher continued to rack up big numbers for Subiaco.

East Perth v Claremont

Beau Wilkes: Wilkes produced a lively performance up forward for Claremont and always dangerous. A feature of his game was his work rate and blocking off the ball.

Lewis Stevenson: After a slow start, Stevenson was part of a midfield effort which turned the game in Claremont’s favour.  He ran hard, took some good ground level balls and used it extremely well to be one of the most damaging players on the ground.

Pat McGinnity: Spent  long periods on the bench, but was an effective player when on the ground. Used handball to creative effect in close and his defensive pressure was very good.

Brett Jones: Might have struggled to get accustomed to the Burley football and kicked inefficiently in the first quarter, but was another who helped turn the game thereafter.  After quarter time he was very good, ran well and kicked much better.

Luke Shuey (East Perth reserves): Played in midfield until injured half way through the second quarter. Was in good touch, used the ball brilliantly , but has subsequently been diagnosed with a fractured fibula which will sideline him for 6-8 weeks.

Liam Bedford (Claremont reserves): Until three-quarter time Liam played half-forward and through the midfield and might have gained some confidence from his performance.

Perth v Peel

Sam Butler: Played the first half on wing and didn’t really get into the game, but moved into the midfield in the third term and did well.  Played the last term in defence.

Ashley Smith: Started on the interchange bench, played the third term at half-back and then played out of forward pocket in last term where he kicked a good goal and led well but was not used. 

Will Sullivan: Whilst beaten by Beeck, who was physically just too strong, Sullivan battled hard all game.  His intensity and work rate were good, he pushed forward menacingly and kicked a good goal.

Ashley Arrowsmith: Started on bench then played at half-forward where he was a good contributor for his side. He attacked the contest with intensity and finished with two goals.

Jordan Jones: Jones was at his best in first half, when he picked up 14 of his 20 possessions and displayed some good run from half-back.  He used the ball well on most occasions and was prepared to work hard.

Will Schofield: Will played at centre half-forward and was at his best in first half, kicking three goals.  He presented well and was a really good focal point. 

West Perth v Subiaco

Chad Fletcher: Worked very hard all game in the midfield and as a half forward very clean with his skills.  Had 30 possessions and was one of the best afield.

Adam Cockie: Was hard and aggressive all game and tried to physically impose himself on the game. Occasionally his disposal was a little askew, but his work rate was high.

Mark Seaby: Seaby’s ruck work was good all day and did everything he could to help the West Perth cause. He proved a valuable contributor in an important win for his club.

Swan Districts v South Fremantle

Nic Naitanui: The agile big man split his time between ruck and full forward and was possibly the most influential player on the ground. He tackled with purpose, had 21 hit outs and his work at ground level were very good.  Finished off his work with four goals.

Tony Notte: A solid all-round game, where he led well and also applied good defensive pressure to the opposition.  Kicked one goal and always looked dangerous.

Ryan Davis: Used as a negating player Davis was injured in the second quarter and this impacted his ability to run. Finished the game on the bench.

Callum Wilson: Rotated between key forward and defensive posts. At centre half-forward in the second term he provided his team with a good contest taking four marks and having six kicks.  South then needed him to play back and continued to run off which was pleasing. Good at both ends of the ground.