Retiring Fremantle legend David Mundy was almost relieved to have his farewell out of the way after feeling ‘overwhelmed’ throughout Fremantle’s 24-point RAC Derby win against West Coast on Saturday at Optus Stadium.
The Purple Army did Mundy’s 373-game career justice with plenty of fanfare, including a stadium wide applause during the 16th minute of the opening term.
Mundy led all players with eight clearances, while his 12 contested possessions and seven score involvements were the second most on ground.
Despite yet another performance leading Fremantle in the midfield, the 37-year-old admitted it was hard to stay on task mentally.
“It’s overwhelming to be honest,” Mundy said.
“I tried to stay focused tonight and the standing ovation at the 16-minute mark, the signs around, the applause when I got the ball and things like that, it’s a lot.
“So, I just tried to stay focused and get the job done and we will hopefully celebrate a little bit now.”
As a country Victorian from Seymour, Mundy felt proud to feel adopted by his new home state.
“The football fans, the football public, Fremantle guys in particular…I am a Victorian and I feel embraced and have felt welcomed in my 19 years here, so thank you all very much,” Mundy said.
Blake Acres, who led all Fremantle payers with 29 disposals, admitted to feeling saddened to see Mundy retire.
“What a career he’s had and to see the whole 50,000 stay after the game and get around him, it was unreal,” Acres said.
“It’s quite sad to be honest, to see a champ like him hang them up. I’m so proud of him.
“We’ve gone 2-0 since he announced his retirement, we want to get it done for him but also the whole Fremantle family.”
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