WAFL Grand Final Fate Hangs in Balance for Royals Ruckman

East Perth's Grand Final Aspirations Depend on Jones's Review

East Perth’s celebrations after making the WAFL grand final could be short-lived as they await the outcome of a report on star ruckman Scott Jones. Jones was influential in the Royals’ 28-point win over Swan Districts in the second semifinal, finishing with a WAFL record 82 hit-outs. This performance secured a spot in the decider for the first time since 2014.

However, concerns are growing as Jones has been reported for an incident involving Swans tagger Jehb O’Donohue. A suspension for rough conduct could jeopardize his inclusion in the Grand Final at Optus Stadium on September 22. If prohibited from playing, Jedd Edwards may get an unexpected chance despite only featuring in three games this season.

Suspensions have already plagued the finals series, with Swan Districts star Aidan Clarke serving a four-week ban for striking Peel’s Brady Gray. Compounding East Perth's woes, Sandover medallist and co-captain Hamish Brayshaw could also miss the final due to a foot injury. After not playing since round 18, hopes are that an extra week will prepare his body for the decisive match.

East Perth's Coach Weighs in on Grand Final Preparations

East Perth coach Ross McQueen has expressed optimism regarding Brayshaw's fitness, indicating he is almost certain to return. “If you asked Hamish, he’d say he’ll be ready,” McQueen remarked, emphasizing the emotional weight of players missing grand finals.

The Royals' grand final appearance is particularly notable, following their elimination in the first week of finals last season and their first finals participation since ending the alignment with West Coast in 2018. “You’ve got to find a way to keep improving,” McQueen stated. “We used 37 players and we’re in the top two for most of the year.”