Final preparations for the Carlton Draught Derby were underway at Fremantle Oval on Friday morning and all eyes were on who was out on the track.
Nat Fyfe, Luke McPharlin, Matthew Pavlich and Michael Johnson all got through the main training session, with Fyfe saying he was ready for Sunday’s game.
“I’m feeling pretty good, I’ve had a two week down period. The first week was sort of a rehab rest program and the second week was more reconditioning and about getting ready to go,” Fyfe said.
Fyfe has missed the past two games with a groin injury. Ross Lyon said on Tuesday the star midfielder would be selected in the final 22 if he got through Friday’s training session.
“I’m like a little kid again, derbies are huge, and this one is going to be the biggest I’ve been involved in so far,” Fyfe said.
“The Eagles are flying and we are playing pretty good football so it should be a good game and hopefully we can get Johnno back, depending on how selection goes.”
Talking points ahead of West Coast
Growing up in West Australia , Fyfe understands the hype of the derby but says it’s easy to remain focussed on the game ahead.
“Footy clubs are great at keeping you internally focused and really focussing on the preparation and what’s going to get you in the best physical shape throughout the game,” Fyfe said.
“We don’t acknowledge too much of the noise, I think it’s great for the State and great for the town. I can’t wait to get out there and play."
Shutting down Matt Priddis will be a focus for the team on Sunday.
“I think Priddis is a real key for them, obviously a former Brownlow medallist and a real inside ball winning barometer for them so we’ll have to clamp down on him,” Fyfe said.
“We need to be aware of what they are going to do with the rucks without Naitanui playing.
“It’s going to be a big challenge.”
