Preliminary Final Match Preview vs Peel Thunder

Subiaco is one win away from a Grand Final berth, with Peel Thunder standing in their way.

The Lions will travel to Lane Group Stadium on Sunday September 17, in the hopes of progressing to the big dance.

However, overcoming the Thunder will be no easy task, as recent history suggests.

FORM

Subiaco was able to bounce back from their Qualifying Final loss to the Thunder, defeating Claremont in the Semi.

In both games, the Lions had periods where they looked like taking the game apart, but weren’t able to execute for long enough.

Against the Tigers, it was Subiaco’s kicking in front of goal which prevented them from surging ahead, having been competitive all around the ground.

However, they were able to set up strongly in the last term, keeping their opponents goalless in the final term to progress to the penultimate game of the WAFL season.

Similarly, Peel have had mixed results, winning the Qualifying Final but being on the losing end against East Fremantle last week.

It sets up the Preliminary Final clash, with the winner to take on the Sharks in the Grand Final at Optus Stadium on Sunday 24 September.

LAST TIME THEY MET

It was a heavily contested match between both sides, when Peel Thunder took the win over Subiaco in the Qualifying Final.

The Lions looked on top up to half time, but a third quarter blitz from the Thunder had the side right back in it.

A tense final quarter saw Peel hold on, despite the Lions continuing to press.

Max Walters was among Subiaco’s best, with two goals from 15 disposals on the day.

Peel have won four of the past five matches against the Lions, but the one win for Subiaco came at Lane Group Stadium.

ONE TO WATCH

Peel Thunder has the luxury of a number of AFL quality players around the ground.

In order for the Lions to win, they will need to control the ball from the source.

The role midfield bull Liam Hickmott plays will be important, amidst a career-best season for Subiaco.

The 24-year-old is averaging 26 disposals, and has benefitted from the service in the ruck from Zac Clarke.

The Sorrento-Duncraig product’s influence could go a long way to helping the Lions win the game.