Sharks to play WAFL finals at Fremantle Oval in 2023

By Jacob Landsmeer

East Fremantle will opt to play their home finals at Fremantle Oval in 2023, should its ladder position at the end of the home and away season warrant such an opportunity.

The East Fremantle and South Fremantle Football Club agreed to terms on a deal to lease the venue to the Sharks on Thursday, meaning the Bulldogs home venue will temporarily become the Sharks stomping ground in September.

It will be the first time East Fremantle have been considered the ‘home’ side at Fremantle Oval since 1952, dating back to when both Fremantle clubs were based at the ground.

The Sharks have played their home games at the WACA in 2022-23 due to the redevelopment of East Fremantle Oval, due for completion in March/April of 2024.

The WACA is unavailable to host WAFL finals matches, due to the time taken to convert and prepare the ground for cricket season in early October.

East Fremantle appears well positioned to host a final, currently top of the table with three rounds remaining looking for their first premiership since 1998.

IMAGE: The West Australian.