Stand-in captain Michael Barlow says he was immensely proud of Fremantle's debutants in Saturday’s loss to Port Adelaide.
Ethan Hughes, Brady Grey, Connor Blakely and Jacob Ballard all played their first AFL game and impressed with strong performances.
Barlow said the debutants and other young players had done themselves proud, despite the 69-point margin.
“It was great to play with some guys playing their first, second or third game,” he said.
“They put a buzz in my step.
“The bounce they provided was obvious to see in the first quarter.
“They can really hold their heads high.
“They all had their moments.”
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Barlow was among the best on ground, with a game-high 35 touches including eight clearances, but said one debutant, in particular, was very impressive.
“Brady Grey was nearly our best player,” he said.
“He had a real distinctive role on Chad Wingard.”
Grey, who had 20 touches, held Wingard goal-less, the first time the rocket small forward has not scored a major in more than 30 games.
“It is fantastic for Brady to keep a player like him goalless,” Barlow said.
Barlow said each debutant held their own.
“Jacob Ballard came on as the sub and won clearances,” he said.
“Ethan Hughes was one of our better players, his courage and desire for the contest was fantastic.
“Connor Blakely is only playing his first game but he could have played 10 or 12 for us this year.”
“It is fantastic to give them a chance plus the four or five who have played just a few games.
“Super for them and super for the club.”
Barlow said it was an honour to captain the club in Matthew Pavlich’s absence.
