Grand Final WAFLW Match Report | Claremont Tigers vs East Fremantle Sharks

In a Shakespearean fashion, Claremont mirrored East Fremantle's ill-fated 2022 season as they, too, experienced heartbreak in the 2023 Grand Final, losing their first game of the year in the most crucial match.

The intensity on the field was palpable, fuelled by the rage and determination of East Fremantle, who were seeking redemption after their previous Grand Final defeat. The Sharks stormed through the game with a blitzkrieg-like approach.

Both teams engaged in a fierce battle for possession, but the Sharks adopted a scrappy and fast-paced approach, constantly contesting the ball as they relentlessly pushed it forward.

This disrupted Claremont's usual winning formula of clean and controlled transitional possession football.

East Fremantle's strategy centred around disrupting Claremont's dominant possession game, employing two tacklers to apply relentless pressure on any Claremont player in possession.

The Sharks determined and playing high-octane football thwarted and suffocated Claremont's efforts, particularly in the ruck contests and around the midfield. Their midfielders' presence disrupted Claremont's rhythm and made it challenging for them to establish control over the game.

Although the overall narrative of the day portrayed East Fremantle's control, Claremont managed to stay within striking distance and showed glimpses of reclaiming their identity during the third quarter. Bec Anderson's goal brought them within one goal, fuelling the belief that they could take control of the game.

As the final quarter began, the pressure mounted, with both teams knowing that the next goal could be the deciding factor in the game's outcome.

The Tigers and Sharks fiercely battled for control, resulting in frantic movements and heightened stress to push the ball into their respective forward 50s.

However, in the closing moments, the pressure proved too much for Claremont to overcome. East Fremantle managed to score a crucial goal, extending their lead by 12 points.

Given the high stakes and the dramatic nature of the game, a comeback for Claremont became a daunting challenge.

Ultimately, like a Shakespearean tragedy, Claremont's dominant season and exceptional year ended abruptly as East Fremantle secured their revenge and triumphed on the big stage.

The match not only established a winner but also ignited a modern rivalry that is bound to connect these two teams for years to come.

The Grand Final Score line read 2.2 (14) to 4.2 (26) with East Fremantle as victors.

Despite the tough loss, several Claremont players displayed individual brilliance in their efforts to lead their team to victory.

In a low-scoring game with East Fremantle dominating clearances, Claire Ortlepp and Taylah Angel emerged as defensive standouts.

With the game being fast-paced and somewhat scrappy, both defenders excelled at collecting loose balls and setting up solid defensive structures. Countless tackles and crucial possessions were credited to Ortlepp and Angel.

Kate Orme showcased her strength with 17 disposals and demonstrated leadership and composure when the team needed it most.

Rachel Ortlepp, who scored Claremont's first goal, exemplified determination, showing incredible endurance as she ran tirelessly throughout the entire match. With 10 disposals and 3 tackles, she complemented her goal well.

Despite facing a tough matchup in the ruck department, Kobi Nichols showcased her versatility and made a significant impact all over the ground. With 16 disposals, 3 marks, and 10 hitouts, she emerged as a crucial figure in securing possession and controlling the midfield.

The Claremont girls will undoubtedly find this Grand Final loss difficult to bear, as it never is an easy pill to swallow, especially after such an impressive home and away season that showcased their dominance and deep understanding of the game.

However, amidst the disappointment, it is crucial to highlight the incredible journey of the last three years. Witnessing their meteoric rise, going from 8 wins to 11 wins and ultimately becoming an undefeated team until the last day of the season, is a testament to their dedication and hard work.

This rise to glory is a result of a winning culture and strong buy-in from the entire club, investing in the players and building an unwavering belief in their ability to win. Although today's victory didn't materialize, the unity and strength of purpose among the team remain intact.

In fact, this painful Grand Final loss has the potential to galvanise the group for the upcoming season, much like East Fremantle's 2023 motto of "job not finished."

As they turn their focus to season 2024, Claremont can draw inspiration from their remarkable progress so far. With the development of talent emerging from the Rogers competition and the ongoing personal growth within the current squad, the team's potential for improvement is limitless.

I have every reason to believe that next season can be just as dominant, positioning them in the best possible place to return to the Grand Final.

Whilst short at the end, what an incredible season to all the coaching staff, players and support staff, to put themselves back in the Grand Final for 2023 in such an emphatic style of being undefeated up until this point.

Whilst now is a time to rest, recover and reflect. I’m sure the coaches and players are already looking onwards to next year, thinking how they can get the one up and go that step further.

Until next season, it’s been an absolute pleasure.

Go Tigers!

Claremont Goal Scorers:

Rachel Ortlepp, Bec Anderson

Claremont Best:

Claire Ortlepp, Kate Orme, Kobi Nichols, Rachel Ortlepp, Taylah Angel, Jacinta Valentini