Matthew Pavlich says he will always be thankful for the support the Fremantle fans have shown him over his 17 years at the club.
Pavlich, who played his 353rd and final game for the club, said seeing the 34,765 strong crowd standing as he walked his lap of honour is something he will never forget.
“To see every single crowd member still in the crowd and on their feet at the end when I was doing that lap is something I will take to my grave and never forget,” he said.
“We’ve grown up together the footy club and I and that includes all our fans out there.”
Talking points from Bulldogs clash
In a performance of grit and determination, Fremantle sent their greatest ever player out victorious, holding off the Western Bulldogs to secure a 20-point victory.
Pavlich said the team had wanted to improve for the final game of the season.
“We didn’t have to win, we just had to go out there and play in a manner that was befitting of the occasion,” he said.
“That endeavor and intensity which has been the hallmark of our game for really the last five years and has been missing this year was great to see today.”
“I will always be extremely thankful for their efforts today.”
Gritty win for Pav
Pavlich became just the fifth player in VFL/AFL history to play 300 games and kick 700 goals when he got on the end of Shane Yarran’s handpass in the goal square and slotted the milestone goal.
Players streamed from all over the field to celebrate with Pavlich and he said the feeling was amazing.
“That was phenomenal, every single (team) member got down there, so really really pleased,” he said.
“Given the way I kicked in the end it was nice to get one in the goal square thanks to Shane (Yarran)."
As the final siren sounded, Pavlich said a feeling of relief and satisfaction washed over him as his brilliant career came to a close and he knew he had made the right decision to hang up the boots.
“I can’t give anymore, my body and mind are scattered and weary and it’s time to move on,” he said.
Players who have played 300 games and kicked 700 goals in the VFL/AFL:
Gordon Coventry
Leigh Matthews
Kevin Bartlett
Bernie Quinlan
Matthew Pavlich
