Talented duo share home win

Great Southern duo Steven Edwards and Ben Saunders were part of South Fremantle’s historic trip to Albany, as their side shook off a spirited Claremont to claim victory in front of more than 2000 spectators at Centennial Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Edwards and Saunders have both made the transition from the Great Southern-zoned WAFL club Claremont to their current homes at South Fremantle, where they are thriving in Bulldogs colours.

Returning to the league side from illness, Edwards was immediately into the action for the Bulldogs on his home turf with an early touch, and the rebounding defender got better as the game wore on.

The 22-year-old who hails from Royals was among the Bulldogs’ best contributors in the 27-point win as he collected 12 disposals, three marks and laid three tackles while spending time marking fellow Albany footballer and close friend Matt Palfrey.

The Bulldogs led at every change before kicking five goals to one in the final term as they wrapped up a round 5 victory in the first-ever WAFL match at the multimillion-dollar facility.

Saunders, a former Mt Barker junior, played as a deep forward for much of the contest and snapped brilliantly to kick his only major of the game, helping the Bulldogs open up a 15-point advantage at quarter-time.

The three-time Bernie Naylor medallist, with family watching on in the stands, had one of his quieter games and missed a chance to slot a second goal in the third when a set shot drifted wide.

His forward pressure and fierce attack on the ball was evident though, laying four tackles to go with seven possessions and three inside 50s.

Bulldogs coach Todd Curley said it was fantastic to see Edwards and Saunders return home for a WAFL fixture.

“For Ben and Steve it’s a great opportunity, they love coming home,” Curley said.

“It’s a great opportunity for them to show home to their teammates and they’re really proud of the region.”