Bolton’s brilliance fuels Freo’s finals faith

Fremantle’s highly paid star recruit is already showing he’s worth every cent.

A dual premiership player as a Tiger, Shai Bolton came west in the most recent trade period, looking to help the Dockers win their first.

On Saturday, he was in the thick of everything as Fremantle secured their biggest and most important victory of the season to date: an 11-point road win over the top-four, red-hot Suns.

It was the third time in his 11 Dockers appearances Bolton has kicked three goals from 20 disposals.

But his most important involvement wasn’t his line-breaking speed or silky finishes on the run, rather a last minute, gut-busting, run-down tackle on Nick Holman.

The act was a match-winner, as Jye Amiss slotted the sealer from a tight angle. It was also match-saving, with Bolton’s desperation to close down Holman denying the Suns one final chance at victory.

It typified what the Dockers did all day, applying relentless pressure on the opposition in trying, deteriorating conditions.

The four points – their third straight win – has lifted the Dockers back inside the top eight, and their 7-5 win-loss record also reignites their finals credentials.

The week off will be a whole lot more enjoyable, the beaten bodies will seemingly recover quicker, allowing Fremantle to launch into the second half of the campaign with three consecutive games at Optus Stadium.

Oscar Allen returns to form

Oscar Allen – his future, body and form – has been constantly in the headlines this year.

It’s been a rollercoaster year, one which has been an emotional, physical and mental challenge, and we’re only half-way through.

But on Sunday night, an inspired piece of play in the opening term sparked Allen’s return to form.

The co-skipper managed to impact a certain Mitch Duncan mark at half-back, awkwardly throwing his body into the contest, effecting a spoil.

Not only did he halve the contest, but while Duncan lay on the ground winded, the 26-year-old recovered, sprinting down the field.

Allen’s brilliant 100-metre transition goal was complete when snapping truly from a Jack Williams handpass.

It was more than just the first goal of the night for the home side. It set the standard for the team.

It laid the foundations for Allen’s four-goal performance – his best return this year – while also adding six score involvements, an equal team high.

And it also brought about the return of the smile, his self-confidence and spring in his step. To fans, it looked like the Oscar of old, and I’d bet it felt the same to him.

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