Sharks defeat Derby rivals for EGT WAFL Colts premiership

East Fremantle won the EGT WAFL Colts decider in convincing fashion over arch-rivals South Fremantle in Sunday’s twilight finale at Optus Stadium.

The minor premiers defeated their derby foes for the second time in a fortnight, running away with a 44-point victory under lights in the final footy match at the venue for 2026.

East Fremantle captain and Fremantle Next Generation Academy talent Josh Nathan impressed on the big stage with a best-on-ground performance.

Nathan finished with 27 disposals, seven marks, six clearances, four inside 50s and two goals in an eye-catching display to win the Mel Whinnen Medal, polling the maximum nine votes.

Fellow Dockers NGA gun Fin Yeo and athletic utility Marcus Motton also produced some exciting moments for the victors, while Geraldton product Reid Foot and key forward Kye Ormerod stood tall up forward with three goals apiece and Hunter Hearn did his bit across half-back.

Bottom-ager James Artemis was another brilliant performer as he shapes up as one of the State’s top 2027 prospect, tallying 18 disposals and eight inside 50s.

Souths co-captain Jack McAuliffe kicked a beauty from the pocket to kickstart his side’s match before East Fremantle stormed ahead with five unanswered goals.

Ormerod produced the highlight of the opening term with a stunning checkside goal from deep in the pocket, while former State 16s co-captain Hearn took a hanger at the other end of the ground.

Nathan was enormous for his side, setting the tone with a dominant first half which included 15 disposals, four clearances, four inside 50s and a goal.

Souths couldn’t get back into the contest in the second half as the Sharks them their second grand final defeat in as many years.

Co-captain and recently-crowned Jack Clarke Medal winner Chace Vanderhoek battled hard in a losing cause, with Zac Godwin also prominent.