Freo faithful fume over Friday night flop. So, how can the Dockers rebound?

A Friday night flop has left the Fremantle faithful fuming.

The coach and senior officials’ futures are being questioned, so too if this playing group is motivated to put in the hard yards to succeed, on the back of a pre-season of talk dominated about pushing for a first premiership.

The Dockers were absolutely smacked by the Saints.

Fremantle lost the clearance count 50-22, a -28 result which is the biggest differential in club history.

The worst part is Fremantle knew exactly what their ex-coach Ross Lyon would throw at them, and yet they couldn’t do anything to stop it.

They were given no room to move as the Saints midfielders were strong in the contest and willing to put their head over the ball, resulting in the Dockers playing in the back half for the majority of the match.

Star Caleb Serong was held to just 15 disposals – his lowest return since his 13th game in his debut year of 2020.

His partner in crime Andrew Brayshaw had 18 disposals and one clearance, again raising doubts over Fremantle’s ability to get it done if their two midfield guns don’t.

Yes, they have a young list, but it’s also seen as one of the most talented in the competition.

Justin Longmuir also has his doubts, asking post-game: “Are we up for the challenge that an AFL season confronts us with?”

They need answers to the tough questions – and quickly.

The national stage and an audit awaits on Thursday against Collingwood.

Great Gawn exposes West Coast’s weakness in ruck

Max Gawn: seven-time All Australian, dual best and fairest winner, premiership captain and future Hall of Famer.

A modern-day marvel of the game.

At 33, he could be forgiven for tapering off his remarkable form as he enters the twilight of his phenomenal career.

Yet, on Saturday night he delivered a career-best performance in game 232 while badly exposing the Eagles ruck deficiencies.

Gawn stared from beginning to end, feasting on West Coast.

He collected a personal best 35 disposals and game-high returns in touches, contested possessions (22), score involvements (12), and clearances (9).

He runs all day, works hard defensively and is a target when drifting forward. His impact led Melbourne to a clearance domination (49-26), once again highlighting the Eagles’ struggles in the ruck department.

The reality is West Coast have battled to replace Nic Naitanui since he last played in 2022. Bailey Williams shouldered the load in 2023 and 2024, but has managed only four games this season.

Matt Flynn was recruited in the hope he could play a lead role, but form and injury to date have been a challenge.

West Coast’s midfield has had little impact this year, with new faces getting exposure and experience.

If they can begin to limit the ruck damage, it will go a long way to stop the bleeding.

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