Debut to remember for Boddington product after helping South Fremantle start flag defence on a winning note

Boddington’s George Wessels had a league debut to remember as he helped South Fremantle start their premiership defence on a winning note on Saturday. Wessels played 19 colts games for the Bulldogs across 2018 and 2019 before playing just two reserves matches last year. However he has broken into the reigning premiers’ senior side in the 2021 WAFL season and helped them record a 21-point win over West Perth at their home ground. The 19-year-old impressed in his first league appearance, collecting 14 disposals and laying three tackles. Star midfielder Haiden Schloithe hit the ground running to start the new season. The Katanning product ran out alongside Pingelly’s Tom Blechynden and Wessels moments after the 2020 premiership flag was dropped off in the centre of Fremantle Community Bank Oval by a helicopter. Schloithe was named in the Bulldogs’ best as they defeated a brave West Perth side 16.10 (106) to 13.7 (85) in front of a strong home crowd. After the Bulldogs lost key personnel through their midfield over the off-season, Schloithe spent more time in the centre of the ground. He starred in the victory kicking two important goals to go along with 30 disposals, seven tackles and six inside-50s to be close to best-on-ground along with the returning Matthew Parker from St Kilda. Schloithe was huge in the final term as he helped his side boot five goals to three to secure the win. Blechynden, playing just his 11th league game, racked up 12 possessions, laid four tackles, and took two marks.