Katanning star Haiden Schloithe stars in round one as defending premiers start the season in winning form

Star midfielder Haiden Schloithe hit the ground running in the first game of the 2021 WAFL season on Saturday.

Schloithe helped South Fremantle start their premiership defence on a winning note at their home ground.

The Katanning product ran out alongside Pingelly’s Tom Blechynden and Boddington’s George 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 by 21 points 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 16.10 (106) to 13.7 (85) 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, four tackles, two marks and two inside-50s.

Wessels made his league debut and collected 14 disposals and three tackles.

Kojonup product Travis Abbott was named in the Bulldogs reserves’ best as they went down by 26 points to the Falcons.

Abbott slotted 3.1 from 12 touches, six marks and three inside-50s.