Royals Wrap Up - Round 9

The Swans were no contest for an unstoppable East Perth, who were also celebrating 111 years in the WAFL, on Saturday at Medibank Stadium.

Lewis Jetta was the man of the hour, playing his first WAFL game since 2009 not only against his old club, but also brother Graham Jetta. Lewis became the 1422nd player to represent East Perth at League level.

Jackson Nelson scored the Royals first goal in under two minutes, and East Perth’s offensive blitz undeniably set the tone for the rest of the match. 

Adam Faulkner booted the Swans first goal for the match early in the second quarter, and would be a major ball winner for the rest of the match. 

Even though Faulkner’s efforts couldn’t compete against a relentless East Perth side, he maintained his strong start to the season demonstrating his consistent and fit form for the club.

After halftime, the benefits of having a bye became apparent as East Perth hit the ground running with fresh legs and kept the Swans goalless in the third quarter, booting four majors to push the lead to over 60 points. 

The margin was beyond the point of return for the Swans, and gave one last opportunity for Xavier Ellis, Patrick McGinnity and Jetta to impress Adam Simpson and Dean Cox who were watching over the game from the stands.

At the end of the final term East Perth had kicked another five goals to finish with a huge 91-point win, and a much needed percentage booster to push them into the top five. 

Our two wingman Payne and Jetta racked up 29 disposals each, McGinnity’s intelligent ball use and five inside 50’s put him amongst the best for the Royals, along with Nelson and midfielder Kane Lucas. Shayne Hille and Julian Ameduri were dangerous across half forward kicking two goals each. The ever reliable Kyle Anderson and Mitch Fraser were again solid down back.

The Royals capitalized on their 29 scoring shots and dominated the hit-outs with ruckman Paul Johnson and Jonathon Giles collecting 40 between them, which clearly reflected on the final scoreboard. 

The Royals have now jumped into the top five after the first full rotation of fixtures and take on Peel Thunder at Bendigo Bank Stadium next Saturday where the winner will consolidate their place in the top 5.

It was a disappointing day for the Reserves. After kicking eight goals to two in the first quarter and leading by five goals at half time time, the boys fell away in the second half with the Swans kicking 12 goals to 2 to finish 21 point winners.

Dispite a 40 disposal game by Mitch Dobson, our young Colts team was out classed by the Swans under lights.

Despite these results in the Reserves and Colts all three of our grades are in the Top 5.