Venue Change for Claremont v Peel Thunder

This weekend’s Round 6 WAFL fixture between Claremont and Peel Thunder will be played at Medibank Stadium on Saturday, April 23.

Colts, Reserves and League games will all be relocated from Claremont Showground after a final assessment of the playing surface by turf experts today concluded it did not meet minimum standards.

WAFL General Manager Steve Hargrave said that despite extensive work to prepare the surface since the beginning of April, it was not yet suitable for WAFL fixtures.

“The West Australian Football Commission has been working closely with Claremont Football Club and turf experts to assess the playing surface to ensure it meets the standard required for players competing in the premier State League competition,” he said.

“There is still more time needed for the resurfacing work to settle, meaning the fixtures will be played at Medibank Stadium instead, which does not host a game in Round 6 with East Perth playing away and Subiaco having the bye.

Claremont Football Club CEO Graham Moss said it was unfortunate the playing surface did not yet meet minimum standards despite an intensive restoration program since the last event was held at the Showground on April 3.

“The restoration program was designed to ensure the ground met the minimum standards for this weekend’s games but unfortunately that hasn’t occurred,” he said.

“We are fortunate that Medibank Stadium is available to host our game instead and I thank East Perth and Subiaco Football Clubs for access to their venue. I encourage all of our supporters to head across to Leederville instead and make sure we still have a home ground atmosphere.

“Restoration work will continue at Claremont Showground and we are confident it will be ready for our Round 8 home game against South Fremantle.”

Peel Thunder CEO John Ditchburn said his club was looking forward to playing Claremont at Medibank Stadium this weekend.

“We’ve been advised by Claremont and the WAFL that the venue has been changed and we support that move in the best interests of all players from both teams,” he said.