Demons Drought Breaking Win Seals September BeliefTuesday, September 2, 2025 - 12:46 PM

Perth has become the feel-good story of the Sullivan Logistics WAFL Finals Series after winning the Elimination Final against East Fremantle.

The Demons 29-point result was their first finals success this century in just the club’s second finals campaign since 1997.

Aaron Clarke played a leading role in the emotional victory, booting six goals as Perth kicked 10 goals to four in the second half.

“It was a great team win, and it shows the maturity of the group to respond the way we did in the second quarter after being down by 20 odd points,” Clarke said.

“We took command of the game playing our brand, and it was nice to see that pay off on the scoreboard with us scoring over 100 points. 

Nearly 6,000 fans turned out to see the match at The Good Grocer Park, the vast majority of them supporting the Demons who haven’t won a premiership since 1977, ironically against East Fremantle.

“It was amazing to see all the passion from the Demons faithful,” he said.

“It has been a long time since any of them have seen a Perth finals win and to be a part of the group that delivered that is a good feeling.

‘We are not satisfied with one win and are hungry for more and will do everything right on the track this week to prepare for Claremont.

“We’re looking forward to seeing plenty of red and black colours around the ground on Sunday.”

Claremont will host Sunday’s First Semi Final after being overwhelmed by East Perth in last weekend’s Qualifying Final.

The Tigers have beaten Perth twice this season, by 67 points in Round 8 at Revo Fitness Stadium, while the Demons led by 50 points at quarter time in Round 19 at Mineral Resources Park, only to go down by 13 points in one of the most bizarre games of the season.

“The playing group has great self-belief that our best footy stacks up with anyone in the competition,” Clarke said.

“Winning the way we did against the Sharks just gives us the confidence that our brand stands up during finals intensity.

“We have now tasted a finals win and are desperate for more.”