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Sharks seek Derby redemption

Friday, June 3, 2016 - 10:31 AM by Tom Fee

After a disappointing loss to Peel, East Fremantle will look to bounce back against rivals South Fremantle in the Foundation Day Derby at Fremantle Community Bank Oval.

The two Fremantle sides put up one of the games of the season in Round 6 as the Bulldogs snatched a 7 point victory at the death -- and there’s no doubting that the East Fremantle players are hungry to reverse the result and extend their winning streak at Fremantle Oval to six games.

Speaking after Thursday’s training session, Vice-Captain Matthew Jupp said he always enjoys the high-stakes nature that comes with the Derby.

“They’re always the best games to play in,” said Jupp.

“It’s easy to say that we’re extremely excited and ready to come up against the Bulldogs this week. They’re one up on us this year so we owe them one – well we always owe them one really. But I enjoy the challenge as it’s the toughest contest you’ll face all year outside of finals.”

The Bulldogs will be fresh from 16 days rest after their 47 point win over Swan Districts in Round 10.

A nine day turnaround also allows the Sharks for some extra time to recuperate, who will be bouyed by Jamie McNamara and Sam Read's return from injury.

But there's been no chance for the squad to put their feet up with the coaching staff adding a fourth training session to this week’s schedule -- allowing another chance to implement the findings from a lengthy review of the loss to Peel.

“Win or lose reviews are always the same,” said Jupp.

“Our coaches do a great job in identifying the areas that need work and that was no different this week -- albeit there were a few more things than usual.

“I think we reviewed that game quite solidly and we’ve worked on a lot of that. We’ve had a longer week with an extra training session on Saturday so we’ve had a bit more time to prepare, and I think you’ll find a better effort throughout the four quarters on Monday.”

Jupp said the Sharks won’t be overawed coming up against the high flying Bulldogs, but there’s no underestimating a side that leads the league in points scored and is second in points conceded this season.

“They’ve got some absolute guns in their team and sitting on top of the ladder – there’s more than a few guys we’ll need to keep tabs on,” said Jupp.

“Ashton Hams always goes well as does Haiden Schloithe who kicked the winner against us last time, so I’d expect we’ll be spending a bit of time on him too. None of their players are players that scare us, but they’re definitely players that we need to respect.”

The Bulldogs’ only omission from their Round 10 win is two-gamer Jake Florencia, while Steven Edwards and Jason Maskos are among five inclusions who could replace him.

With McNamara and Read back in the side, Jacob Green and Round 11 debutant Tom Marshall will return to the Development League. Josh Simpson is the Sharks’ third omission, allowing a handful of players from the Development League the chance of a call up.

Brandon Ellis, who was prolific in East Fremantle’s 89 point thrashing of Peel, is just one potential includion after putting his hand up for a return to League footy with 11 marks and five goals.

Jesse Adamini and Jake Solomon are also in the running to make their debut on Monday. Adamini was again a standout player for the Sharks with 33 touches against Peel, pushing his season average to a team-leading 24 disposals per game.