Pearce pushes Thunder over the line in thriller

Two goals in the dying minutes to Fremantle squad member Alex Pearce proved the difference when Peel snatched an exciting three-point win against East Fremantle at Bendigo Bank Stadium on Saturday.

Pearce, a late inclusion for the Thunder, snapped accurately at the 24th and 27th minute mark to give the Thunder an 11.7 (73) to 9.16 (70) victory.

The 20-year-old had been called into the Dockers side for Sunday’s match against the Western Bulldogs before a change in the AFL club’s plans.

The Thunder led at each change but had been unable to break clear of the Sharks.

Seven days earlier, Peel led premiers Subiaco by 14 points at half-time, only for the Lions to charge home and claim the match by eight points.

Thunder ruckman Jack Hannath finished the game with a remarkable 56 hit-outs, adding 11 possessions and seven marks in a dominant big-man display.

Midfielders Matt de Boer (34 disposals), Ed Langdon (32) capitalised on Hannath’s good work while Sam Collins and Josh Bootsma were strong in defence.