Connor Blakely in AFL’s health and safety protocols as South West stars contribute in first round of WAFL

Bunbury’s Connor Blakely has entered the AFL’s health and safety protocols just days after the Dockers-listed midfielder played a starring role in Peel Thunder’s 32-point win over East Fremantle in round one of the WAFL. Blakely recorded 31 disposals as the Thunder ran away from the Sharks in the last quarter, the Dockers’ 2022 draftee Jye Amiss managed 17 touches and a goal in an impressive debut, and former Eaton player Traye Bennell kicked three goals. Michael Tassone put in a solid showing for East Fremantle with 17 possessions, and ex-Hawk Jonathan Marsh starred strong with three goals. Meanwhile, reigning Sandover medallist Bailey Rogers made a statement for Claremont in his 100th WAFL game as several other South West guns made their mark on a thrilling round one of the State’s premier football league. Rogers, who claimed the award for the league’s best player last season, had 20 disposals and kicked two goals as his Tigers took down West Perth on the road to win 65 to 61. It was not the only thriller over the Easter break as the WAFL swung into action, with East Perth claiming a 79 to 75 win over Swan Districts. Deanmill product Harley Sparks claimed 26 disposals in the match for East Perth, former Busselton and Hawthorn defender Damon Greaves racked up 21 touches and Dunsborough product Stanley Wright compiled 17. For the Swans, Bunbury product Aiden Clarke was impressive with 19 touches and one goal, former Docker and Donnybrook star Tobe Watson amassed 20 disposals and a goal and younger brother Jak Watson recorded 15 touches. Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault product Brady Hough made a solid debut for West Coast’s WAFL side at the weekend alongside Eaton’s Isiah Winder and Bunbury’s Harry Creasey — who was named West Coast’s best afield — as the Eagles went down by two points to Perth.