Debutant Mitch Crowden was thrilled with the performances of his fellow first-year players after Fremantle’s 16-point victory against Essendon at Optus Stadium on Saturday night.
Fremantle fielded two debutants in Crowden and Adam Cerra, as well as two players with one game's experience in Andrew Brayshaw and Bailey Banfield.
“Brayshaw’s tackling and Cerra’s impact was impressive and Banfield, oh man, he was simply outstanding, so I’m very proud of those boys,” Crowden said.
Purchase your tickets to our round 3 Purple Haze Game against the Gold Coast Suns
“(Cerra) got in the right spots and he nailed (two goals) so it’s all you can ask for.
“He’s a great player and I’m sure he’ll have a long career.”
The quartet bookended the 2017 drafts with top-5 picks Brayshaw and Cerra joined by no.59 pick Crowden and rookie Banfield.
Senior coach Ross Lyon had particular praise for Banfield, who helped limit Essendon’s Zac Merrett to 21 disposals in a tagging role.
“I thought Cerra was fantastic tonight, (as well as) Brayshaw and Mitch Crowden’s effort,” Lyon said.
“Bailey Banfield’s role on Merrett was significant.
“We sent him to tag Merrett, and Merrett’s their jet and I thought he really limited him, crucial on the wing so that was pleasing.”
Crowden said Lyon advised Freo’s new players to keep a cool head with the Purple Army expected to be as vocal as ever.
“The roar was unbelievable. It’s pretty hard to get off for the bench because there’s just too much noise,” Crowden said.
“Ross said that the crowd was going to go nuts so we just had to stick to playing hard footy but smart footy. Not play on emotions and keep it smart.
“It was much quicker than I’ve experienced before but I bought into it and played my role with the pressure, so I’m pretty happy."
Crowden hopes Freo can take their momentum into Saturday’s ‘away’ clash with Gold Coast at Optus Stadium nest week, for the annual Starlight Purple Haze game.
“I think everyone will be feeling confident after this win,” Crowden said.
“The fans were terrific, hopefully, the fans get along to the game because we’re sure it’s going to be another fierce contest and we hope to get the four points.”
