‘Real deal’: Fremantle make huge statement with upset win over Geelong
A new contender for the AFL premiership has emerged after Fremantle proved they are the real deal with a thrilling upset over Geelong.
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Fremantle has silenced the doubters and continued its strong start to the AFL season with a thrilling three-point win over Geelong on Saturday.
Considered outsiders playing away from home at GMHBA Stadium, the Dockers started slowly but drew level with the Cats at half time.
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Fremantle kicked four goals to Geelong’s one in the third term and took a 17-point lead heading into the last quarter.
The Cats fought back and got within three points with 30 seconds remaining when Mark Blicavs kicked a superb goal on the run from outside 50.
But it was too late as the Dockers held on for a hard-fought 69 (10.9) to 66 (10.6) win.
It was just the fourth time Fremantle has beaten Geelong at Kardinia Park and the first time since 2015.
The win was the Dockers’ fifth in a row and sees them move up to second on the ladder with a 6-1 win loss record.
The result was even more impressive given they were without Nat Fyfe, ruckman Sean Darcy and key forward Matt Taberner, who all missed the game with injuries.
Fremantle’s defence was particularly impressive as they managed to restrict Geelong forwards Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins to just one goal between them.
The Dockers have had a favourable fixture to start the season but the thrilling victory proved they are the real deal and an early contender for the premiership.
Footy reporter Rohan Connolly tweeted: “OK, that IS a great win by Freo, thoroughly deserved. Bloody good defensively. Real deal? You’d have to say so now, I think.”
Sports broadcaster Alister Nicholson said: “The @freodockers so impressive again. Surely their most meaningful win under Justin Longmuir. What a job he’s/they’re doing.”
Former Sydney Swans star Jude Bolton said: “Sensational win from Freo. Gutsy on the road.”
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You beauty! #Freo
— Neroli Meadows (@Neroli_Meadows) April 30, 2022
That was awesome from Freo, what a game down in Geelong!
— Lachlan McKirdy (@LMcKirdy7) April 30, 2022
Genuine contenders this year.#AFLCatsFreo
Every single Freo player can be proud of that one. They all played their guts out. Against all odds. What a statement @freodockers#AFLCatsFreo#foreverfreo 💜⚓ï¸
— Gillian OShaughnessy (@GillOshaughness) April 30, 2022
Originally published as ‘Real deal’: Fremantle make huge statement with upset win over Geelong
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