The 14 seconds that will haunt Freo’s finals dash

It’s the 14 seconds which could come back to haunt the Dockers and their September aspirations in 2024.

As Jye Amiss calmly slotted the equalising goal against the Bombers, Fremantle’s spot in the top four appeared safe with just seconds remaining.

A draw was enough to maintain third place on the ladder, and for the time being, a double chance.

But a fundamental failure at the game’s final centre clearance changed the outcome, and with it, saw the Dockers plummet to sixth following a heartbreaking one-point defeat.

Essendon had to roll the dice and go for broke, needing victory to keep any finals hope alive.

Despite this, not one Fremantle midfielder set-up on the defensive side of the clearance, allowing space for the Bombers to run into.

As Jye Caldwell ran as decoy across the centre square, it allowed Essendon’s captain and most damaging player Zach Merrett, freedom out the front of the stoppage.

What resulted was a perfect centre clearance for the hosts.

Sam Draper got his outstretched hand first to the ball, tapping it into the path of Merrett, dishing it off to Sam Durham, who went on to kick the match-winning point.

Making matters worse, Fremantle should have been on high alert from the clearances – the Bombers winning the centre square fight 15-11, turning the advantage into 4.4 (28) on the scoreboard.

The tape will be tough viewing for Fremantle as they try to ascertain reasons for losing a
fourth match this year after leading in the final term, this time blowing a 25-point advantage.

Three games remain in the regular season for Fremantle to gain a start at the finals race.

They come up against Geelong, GWS and Port Adelaide – teams all currently ahead of them on the ladder.

While destiny is still in the Dockers hands, the equation just got a whole lot harder.

The Dockers lament after their loss to Essendon.Credit: Getty Images

Eagles produce first post-Simpson win

The Eagles claimed their first win post Adam Simpson on Friday night, delivering their best performance under interim coach Jarrad Schofield as he stakes his claim for the permanent role.

While the skill level requires significant improvement, both the youth and experienced members had key moments.

Eagle Tyrell Dewar celebrates a goal.Credit: Getty Images

In a third term resurgence, Jack Williams again showed he’s developing nicely, Harvey Johnstone got his hands on the ball, Tyrell Dewar kicked two goals while Reuben Ginbey is fast becoming more established and comfortable each week in a half-back position.

Jack Darling displayed improved intensity, his will to impact the contest evident in setting up Jake Waterman’s timely goal on the three-quarter time siren.

Jeremy McGovern, in the absence of Tom Barrass and a concussed Harry Edwards, was a general down back, taking three of his four marks in the last term, quelling young Sun Mac Andrew.

A lot needs to go right for West Coast to claim four points, after all this was their fourth win of the season, their best return since 2021.