There will be no easing into Fremantle’s 2022 NAB AFL Women’s campaign, with forward Gabby O’Sullivan expecting Freo’s local rivals to pose a significant challenge in the round one RAC Derby.
West Coast made the statement of the pre-season with a nine-point scratch match win in December and O’Sullivan said the clash was proof Fremantle can’t take the Eagles lightly despite Fremantle winning by 67-points in their most recent AFLW matchup.
The current leger stands at 3-0 to Fremantle, with Kiara Bowers winning all three best on ground medals, but O’Sullivan said Fremantle would have to be at their best to keep their unbeaten record.
“I think (the scratch match) was a really great hitout for us but West Coast have been the big improvers so it was a really great challenge and I think we’re looking forward to it again on the weekend,” O’Sullivan told 6PR.
“This year, Trent’s really made us think about being a bit more creative and a bit more brave in the way that we play. We’re a lot more skilled now, we’re six seasons in. He’s telling us to take the risks and really get those basics right.
“That’s what we’ve got to try and do. Everyone’s end goal is obviously a premiership and that’s no different for us this year, that’s what we’ve got our eyes on.”
O’Sullivan is set to play a more versatile role in 2022 with the forward flagged to spend some time in the midfield.
“I like a bit of both. In the scratchie I played a bit of midfield,” O’Sullivan said.
“I like being around the ball so whether that’s inside mid or inside the forward line, I’m just happy to have a jumper to be honest.
“It is nice kicking a snag or two, so hopefully I can get on the end of a couple this season.”
While two of the three RAC Derbies have been played at Optus Stadium, O’Sullivan said the group was excited for the first clash against West Coast to be played at Fremantle Oval in front of a crowd.
The two teams met in round two last season in a Covid lockout, with Fremantle winning by nine points in the wet.
“I know the girls do like Freo and I love playing at Fremantle Oval too,” O’Sullivan said.
“You’ve got the spectators pretty much five metres from the boundary line, you can pick out faces, hear who’s calling out to you. Because it is smaller, it looks like it’s a bit more packed.
“No matter if it’s at Optus Stadium or Fremantle Oval or in someone’s backyard, it’s still going to be a good game.”
Match day information: RAC Derby
Gallery: Training 4 January
Full Freo contingent set to travel
