Mid West locals star as East Fremantle win the WAFL reserves premiership

East Fremantle pulled off the impossible and upset Claremont in the reserves grand final with a trio of Mid West Sharks starring in the win. The Sharks entered the clash as major underdogs against a Tigers team that had dropped just one game all season ahead of the final clash at Optus Stadium. However, East Fremantle put them to the sword and claimed their first reserves flag in 16-years with the 11.2 (72) to 6.7 (43) win. A trio of former Great Northern Football League players featured in the win with Brigades’ Ethan Paholski and Railways’ Max Murphy and Jack Cocking. Both Cocking and Paholski have been regular features in the Sharks ressie’s side this year, while Murphy had split duties between the league and reserves side. The youngest out of the core Cocking helped influence the win, kicking two goals in the victory while taking three marks. The 19 year-old booted 36 majors on the year in his first season playing in the senior side after slotting 49 goals in the colts squad last year. While Murphy had plenty of the ball, totalling 22 disposals, six marks, two tackles and two inside 50’s over Claremont – having the equal third most disposals in the win. Paholski made his impact around the ground, finishing with 20 touches, eight tackles, two inside 50’s and kicked a goal. The Mid West region is part of East Fremantle’s talent zone, and the club has a rich history of scouting and growing talent from around the area. With the most notable program being the Shark Pack that sees players have the chance to play at WAFL level, and the club provides a number of opportunities for local players. Most recently presenting a best player award during the GNFL grand finals along with awards at the JJ Clune medal night for best young players.