Facing Geelong in Geelong is one of the biggest tests in AFL football but Michael Johnson says Fremantle head east looking forward to the challenge of Sunday’s clash.
Under senior coach Chris Scott, Geelong has lost only six games at Simonds Stadium during six and a half seasons.
Two of those losses came at the hands of Fremantle, with Freo boasting a respectable 2-2 record at the ground during this period.
“It’s always a big challenge against Geelong in Geelong,” Johnson said.
“We’ll go over there and enjoy each other’s company. We jump on the plane on Friday and will go over there and do the job.
“The good thing about this club is we go and fly every second week and just get away and get around each other.
“It’s great for the younger players to come and experience all of this stuff and, hopefully, we can go over there and come away with the four points.”
Johnson is hopeful Fremantle will be boosted by the return of ruckman Aaron Sandilands.
After starting the season 6-3, Fremantle lost the following three games since Sandilands picked up a hamstring injury.
“It’s always tough for a ruckman to come in and fill Aaron’s shoes,” Johnson said.
“I’ve played in the ruck before. It’s a tough gig and Jon Griffin came through and competed really well.
“It will be great to have Aaron back as he’s a very dominant player and helps the mids out.
“Whoever does play for us I know they’ll play their role and we’ll be going over there against Geelong and giving them the challenge.”
Johnson said Sandilands has shown promising signs early in the week on the training track.
“It’s just like every other player, when they come back from injury it’s about ticking those boxes,” Johnson said.
“The way I see it he’s training well, he’s done the work and so it’s up to (the doctors and match committee) now.”
