MATCH REPORT: PEEL THUNDER VS EAST PERTH – 9 APRIL 2016

Anthony Morabito made an encouraging return to competitive football, but it wasn’t enough to stop Peel going down to East Perth by 30 points on Saturday.

The Thunder returned to Bendigo Bank Stadium on the back of a comfortable 52-point win against Swan Districts at Steel Blue Oval in round three, but were unable to reproduce that form against the Royals.

Despite trailing for much of the game, Peel was in a position to challenge for the four points midway through the final quarter. But five late goals to East Perth gave them a 15.14 (104) to 11.8 (74) victory.

Evergreen midfielder Rory O’Brien continued his hot form, collecting 33 possessions, but it was the class and poise of Morabito that stood out on an otherwise disappointing day for the home side.

The 24-year-old gave onlookers a reminder of the speed and power that saw him win a NAB Rising Star nomination in 2010, finishing the day with 23 possessions.

Peel recruit Brad Walsh said Morabito’s comeback had been encouraging for the entire playing group.

“He’s been through a really tough run and we’re just excited to see him get out there on the park,” Walsh said post-match.

Walsh has made a solid return to the Thunder line-up after spending a year in the AFL with Carlton. 

He finished the day with 18 possessions and made things difficult for the Royals around the packs, laying seven tackles.

He said a series of missed opportunities had cost his side dearly.

“We felt like we were right in the game all the way up to the third and last quarter, but unfortunately … they ended up running over the top,” Walsh said.

Fremantle forward Hayden Crozier starred with three goals, 30 disposals, five marks and eight tackles in a performance that could earn him an AFL recall.

Peel captain Gerald Ugle and forward Brayden Lawler worked hard in attack, booting two goals each, while youngster Calvin Thorne showed promising signs through the midfield with 20 disposals.

Best players for the visitors were Kane Lucas (29 disposals), Patrick McGinnity (25 disposals and two goals) and former major league baseball player Corey Adamson (24 disposals and three goals).

Peel has the bye in round five before taking on Claremont at the Showgrounds.