South West AFL Watch: Busselton’s James Tunstill boots first goal in midst of solid weekend for region’s stars

From impressive outings to big milestones to injury scares, there was plenty of action for the South West’s AFL stars. Busselton’s James Tunstill gained confidence in his second AFL appearance during the Brisbane Lions’ 16.12 (108) to 9.13 (67) win over the Western Bulldogs at the Gabba on Thursday night. Sighted all over the field, the 18-year-old kicked his first career goal almost four minutes into the third quarter, launched from the Lions’ first intercept possession of the term. Along with the goal, Tunstill finished with 11 disposals — including two intercept possessions — four score involvements, five marks, 12 pressure acts, two tackles and two inside 50s. Meanwhile, Manjimup’s Marlion Pickett and Harvey’s Brady Hough went head to head as Richmond hosted the West Coast Eagles at the MCG on Sunday. As the Tigers managed to hold off the Eagles 20.8 (128) to 13.15 (93), Pickett had himself a good day on the track with two goals, 25 disposals, seven marks and five tackles. The 30-year-old also picked up eight intercept possessions, a goal assist, seven score involvements, 19 pressure acts and six inside 50s. On the other hand, Hough had a solid outing after finishing with 20 disposals, 10 marks, three intercept possessions, two score involvements, seven pressure acts, a clearance and two inside 50s. At Optus Stadium, former Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault Lion Ethan Hughes contributed to Fremantle’s heart-stopping victory over Port Adelaide. The 27-year-old managed 24 disposals, six marks, two tackles, two score involvements, 16 pressure acts, six clearances and three inside 50s. However, attention turned to Bunbury’s Connor Blakely after he was sighted limping off the ground with an apparent ankle injury during a post-game session with the other emergency players.