Peel Thunder coach Geoff Valentine impressed with pre-season form of HBL best and fairest Ty Anderson

Former Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault speedster and reigning best and fairest winner Ty Anderson could be in line for an early WAFL league debut with Peel Thunder, according to new coach Geoff Valentine. Valentine was impressed with the 21-year-old’s performance in the midfield during Peel’s pre-season hit-out against Fremantle on Saturday morning. Anderson, who hasn’t featured in the WAFL since the Thunder’s 2017 colts campaign, showcased his pace and ball-winning ability against a quality engine-room which included AFL-listed pair Connor Blakely and Neil Erasmus. “Ty Anderson, coming from HBL, was really impressive in the midfield,” Valentine said. “The kid is on a massive learning curve in terms of learning the game plan and where he fits into that. “Yesterday we were able to throw him inside where he could hunt the footy and use his speed. “He’s set himself up for a really big pre-season and we’ll see how he goes from there.” Eight Fremantle-listed players featured in the scratch match including premiership defender Joel Hamling, James Aish, Brandon Walker, Sam Sturt and rookie addition Karl Worner. Valentine felt Anderson took plenty of confidence out of his recent training stint with the Dockers alongside new teammates Traye Bennell, Wade Derksen, Luke Polson, Lachie Cullen, Jarrad McIlvinney, Riley Smith, Jack Sears and Zak Pretty. Anderson, who has spent time recently playing alongside former Docker Jesse Crichton, told the South Western Times last week he was “tracking well” at his new club. “It’s a big step up, but it’s exciting and I think I’m ready for it, honestly,” he said. “I’m hoping to play round one.” Peel kick off their season against East Fremantle at Lane Group Stadium in Mandurah on April 16.