Fremantle Dockers fans pack Perth Airport as team flies to Melbourne for grand final
FREMANTLE'S Grand Final squad was treated to a rockstar send-off by about 200 fans as they flew out of Perth Airport yesterday afternoon.
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FREMANTLE'S Grand Final squad was treated to a rockstar send-off by about 200 fans as they flew out of Perth Airport yesterday afternoon.
Around 200 fans decked out in purple gave the players and coaching staff a rousing reception as the club song blared through the airport's PA system.
As expected, sore trio Michael Johnson, Luke McPharlin and Chris Mayne all boarded the flight to Melbourne and were named in the Dockers' 22 this afternoon.
Last week's emergencies Alex Silvagni, Tom Sheridan and Jack Hannath all made the trip, with Fremantle naming an unchanged lineup for Saturday's grand final against Hawthorn.
There was plenty of colour on show, with purple and white balloons adorning the airport, and even the sniffer dogs were wearing purple Dockers bandannas.
One fan was decked out in an all-purple 'Phantom' outfit to show his support.
Fremantle supporter Meagan Timms, 21, said she was thrilled to be able to farewell her heroes at the airport before heading to Melbourne herself.
"I got my flights booked a few weeks ago so it's a really exciting time," she said.
"I just want the players to know that they have our full support and we are extremely proud of them, no matter what happens in the game."
Hamersley resident Glenda Strother, who was holding a large sign and flag to pledge her support as the players walked through the terminal, said she was unable to get to the game but wanted to see the team off regardless.
"Even though a lot of us won't be there, we'll be there in spirit," she said. "And screaming at our televisions.
"My message to the boys is try to keep a cool head - as the boss (Ross Lyon) says, try to keep a lid on it.
"Concentrate, play hard, and bring that cup home to us."
Earlier, Johnson, McPharlin and Mayne all completed training at Fremantle Oval as they look to shrug off fitness concerns ahead of Saturday's clash.
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