In a dominating display, Fremantle’s midfield controlled the clearance game 47-23, giving the forwards numerous opportunities and leading to 68 inside 50s (20 more than the season average).
The forward line capitalized, with Jye Amiss (four goals), Luke Jackson (three goals), Josh Treacy (three goals), Michael Walters (three goals), and Michael Frederick (two goals) all contributing significantly.
“They can say what they want in the media, but the boys know that we back them in internally and they got the lick of the ice-cream today,” defender Luke Ryan said post-match.
“It’s a good stepping stone for the back half of the season.
“We didn’t have to do too much (the defensive group).
“The forwards were leading up well, the ball movement was good, and the mid-forward connection was the best I’ve seen here for a very long time.
“We got bang for buck and kicked straight, which was pretty nice.”
If the big forwards weren’t taking contested marks, they were bringing the ball to the ground for the dynamic smalls to go to work.
An all-round effort from the team was highlighted by a career-best performance from Sam Switkowski and a return to form for veteran forward Walters.
“He’s elite ‘Switta’, he’s one of the best I’ve seen inside,” Ryan said.
“He can sidestep anyone, gets to the right spots, and it was great to see him get involved as well.
“He’s obviously had a few injuries, but if we can get him playing consistently, we’ll be a better team for it.”
Switkowski finished the game with a career-high 25 disposals, 401 metres gained, eight marks, five clearances, six inside 50s, four goal assists, and a goal.
The winning score is the highest total achieved under senior coach Justin Longmuir.
