Parker shines in WAFL debut

Mt Barker forward and reigning Sean Plaisted medallist Daniel Parker had his first taste of WAFL, playing reserves for East Fremantle on Monday while there was a general bye for the WA long weekend in the Great Southern Football League.

Parker was a surprise inclusion in the Sharks side at East Fremantle Oval as they clashed with South Fremantle in the traditional derby on the public holiday.

Playing as a key forward, Parker was impressive as he booted three goals and was named in the Sharks’ best players despite them losing by 44 points.

The 23-year-old finished with six disposals, four marks, one tackle, one inside-50 and kicked three straight in an encouraging first-up performance at the WAFL club, which has strong links to a number of Mt Barker players.

Former Royals midfielder Steven Edwards made a successful return from injury in that match, playing a starring role for South Fremantle in the win.

Edwards, who has been sidelined since round 6, collected 20 possessions, five marks and five inside- 50s to go with his four goals as one of the most dominant players on the ground.

South Fremantle thumped the Sharks in the league fixture, with Mt Barker’s Ben Saunders snaring three goals in the 145-point rout.

Saunders had 11 touches, six marks and finished with 3.2, and is now fourth in the leading goal- kicking standings.

Ex-North Albany key position talent Mitch McGovern was this week cleared by the Adelaide Crows to return to playing after a long lay-off with a serious ham-string injury.

McGovern tore his hamstring in round 3 against Port Adelaide and is likely to return via the SANFL this week.