Fremantle forward Chris Mayne has urged the club and its supporters to stick together after a horror start to the season, sensing a turnaround is possible in the not-too-distant future, The West Australian reported on Monday.
Freo remain winless after Saturday’s 41-point defeat to premiers Hawthorn at Aurora Stadium, their eighth straight loss this year.
Silky midfielder Stephen Hill picked up a suspected adductor injury and could join fellow starts Nat Fyfe (broken leg), Aaron Sandilands (ribs), Michael Johnson (knee/hamstring) and Harley Bennell (calf) on the sidelines for the clash with Richmond at Domain Stadium this Saturday night.
Mayne is an unrestricted free agent coming out of contract at the end of the season and faces a big decision on his future, with Victorian clubs reportedly circling.
The 27-year old is yet to commit his long-term future to Fremantle and said he had left al contract talks to his manager.
But he said the senior members of the team were committed to the cause and called for unity amongst the players, coaches and supporters as they attempt to take some positives out of what has been reduced to a development season.
“We didn't think we'd be in this position,” Manye told The West Australian.
“The playing group, coaching staff, club and fans have to stick together because we will turn and we’ll get back to the position we’re meant to be in.
“I can guarantee that all of us that play and put on the purple jumper want to win.
“We don’t go out there just to make up the numbers.
“This year’s been disappointing and the club, the fans and players are feeling that.”
Talking points after Hawks loss
Mayne, who made his debut in 2008, has played 158 games for Fremantle.
He likened the current situation to the rut the club was in during his first two seasons, when it won just six matches in consecutive years under former coach Mark Harvey.
“When I first started playing, it was tough going at the football club,” Mayne said.
“When Ross (Lyon) came (in 2012), we started playing football that we expected to play.
“I feel that if we stay positive, united and together, and we don’t splinter or crack, then we’ll turn it around.
“A lot of clubs have gone through these positions.
“It’s AFL football, it’s not tiddlywinks, it’s a competition for men and we have to stand up and get the job done.”
Fremantle’s attack will be bolstered for the clash with a rejuvenated Richmond by the return of former captain Matthew Pavlich, who was rested against the Hawks.
