WAFL: Round 20 Match Preview vs East Fremantle

Subiaco will go into this weekend’s match up with the Sharks at Leederville Oval with the knowledge of how important a win is in the context of the season.

Securing the four points would all but lock the Lions in for a home final, while a big win could see them finish in top spot.

Lose however, and the side could fall as low as fifth, pending the results of the other matches.

Destiny is in their own hands on Saturday August 26, as the Lions look to take momentum into the WAFL Finals Series.

FORM

Subiaco has performed strongly in recent times, having won their past four matches.

Among them was one of the Lions’ best wins of the year, defeating then-top of the ladder East Perth back in round 16.

The winning streak has Subiaco in second spot, with a chance to lock away a home final with a win.

However, the hurdle to get there is perhaps the Lions’ biggest challenge so far.

East Fremantle have timed their run well, winning their last eight matches to be a game ahead in top spot ahead of the final round.

A strong lead into September against the WAFL’s form side will test Subiaco, as they look to build momentum.

LAST TIME THEY MET

Subiaco lowered their colours to the Sharks when the two sides went head to head in round six.

East Fremantle got the jump on the Lions, and weren’t able to fight their way back in the contest, going down by 32 points at the WACA Ground.

Despite the loss, Liam Hickmott performed well in the wet conditions, with 25 disposals and six tackles.

The clash marked the Lions’ fourth loss in a row to the Sharks, a streak they’ll be looking to end come Saturday.

ONE TO WATCH 

Stopping East Fremantle at the source is going to be an important task come Saturday.

One who could be important in winning the ball from the middle is Stef Giro.

The 2022 Outridge Medallist has been able to hit the scoreboard more this season, and was one of the Lions’ best last week with 32 disposals and nine inside 50s.

His leadership and experience will be important for Subiaco, as we head towards the pointy end of the WAFL season.