A HOME game in Margaret River was a success in more ways than one for
East Perth last weekend, with the Royals snapping a five-game losing streak and
attracting a big crowd of 1948 to the WAFL game in their country zone.
Kicking into the breeze in the opening quarter, East Perth were only three points adrift at quarter-time and kicked the only goal in the second term to lead by four points at the main break.
They increased their lead to five points at the last change to set the scene for a thrilling finish, but weren’t troubled in the fourth quarter, dominating with six goals to one to run out 16.12 (108) to 10.12 (72) winners.
Four East Perth players returned to their club of origin for the clash, with former Margaret River players Ben and Tim Noakes, Hamish Shepheard and Ben Stratton all taking part in the contest, which was played in Margaret River as part of the Country Sports Enrichment Scheme.
All four rose to the occasion in front of their regional fans to help East Perth claim a six-goal win after a strong finish in wet and windy conditions.
The occasion also saw local Royals fan Greg Messer presented with a signed East Perth jumper and toss the coin before the game after winning a competition coordinated by the WAFL through the Augusta-Margaret River Mail newspaper.
Messer was presented with his jumper at a pre-game luncheon hosted by Augusta-Margaret River Football Club, which played an integral role in making the day a huge success for both the local community and the WAFL.
“The entire event was an outstanding promotion for the WAFL, Augusta-Margaret River Football Club, the SWFL and football overall,” said WAFL Director of Football Grant Dorrington.
“Everyone’s leadership and support of this Country Sport Enrichment game was greatly appreciated.”