Great Southern key defender Jacob Blight shines in WAFL grand final defeat as Peel outclassed by East Freo

Impressive key defender Jacob Blight has fallen short in his bid to finish the WAFL season with a premiership, his Peel Thunder side outclassed by East Fremantle on Sunday at Optus Stadium. Blight, who hails from Railways, has enjoyed a brilliant season after making the switch from Claremont to the Thunder. The 21-year-old was named in the WAFL Team of the Year and was a key part of the Thunder’s defensive unit on grand final day. However, the Sharks started superbly and never looked back in the decider, going on to win by 39 points, 12.13 (85) to 6.10 (46), at the final siren with Blight and his mates in defence under constant pressure. Despite having to contend with 55 inside-50s in the grand final defeat, Blight stood up well to the challenge and capped his 2023 with another strong display. Blight finished with 14 disposals, four marks and five tackles to be among the Thunder’s best contributors. A gutted Blight said it was a disappointing finish to the season. “It was a disappointing day, we weren’t on from the start and didn’t have enough strong contributors for the day,” Blight said. “Credit to East Freo with how they came out and stuck to their game plan, they bought the heat early and we didn’t adapt well enough. “I’m proud of my year and hopefully there are bigger and better things to come.” Blight battled hard in the opening half but the Sharks had too many options in attack, as their forwards feasted on the midfield dominance. Josh Schoenfeld and Ben McGuire kicked two goals each in the win as the Sharks broke a 25-year flag drought. The Simpson Medal for the best player on the ground went to hardworking Sharks midfielder Milan Murdock who collected 27 touches, seven inside-50s and kicked a goal.