Stefan Giro is hopeful Fremantle will become a more consistent and successful team as its developing core gains more experience at AFL level.
The first-year midfielder is one of seven Fremantle players to make their debut in 2018, with that group combining for 73 games so far this year – the most of any team in the AFL.
After an impressive nine-point victory against top-four contenders Port Adelaide in round 17, Fremantle fell by 29-points to Essendon at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
Giro said that ups and downs can happen as a team develops.
“When we bring our game plan and bring our pressure, we’re in every game,” Giro said.
“That’s what I’ve noticed so far. It’s just that inconsistency.
“Last week we were great (against Port Adelaide) but little things or fractures in the game plan is what makes the game plan fall apart.
“We’re just starting to get used to that now and trying to gel as a team. We just take improvement from it week by week.”
Giro, who has played seven consecutive games since making his debut in round 11, feels that he is also looking for consistency on an individual level.
The 19-year-old’s 13 disposals against Essendon was down on his most recent games – peaking with 19 touches against Port Adelaide – but the pressure forward has laid five tackles or more in four of his past five appearances.
“I want to try and create that consistency,” Giro said.
“Obviously, as a young player it’s not easy. You just want to keep improving, providing that pressure and my running, trying to keep that consistent every game and keep building.”
While Giro said he’s been working closely with veteran and fellow South Australian Danyle Pearce, he’s also using his peers within the Fremantle lineup for guidance.
“Danyle has been really great for me. He’s played over 250 games and he’s been great for me, taking me under his wing and has helped me out a lot as we play similar roles,” Giro said.
“There were a few boys that debuted before me and they were able to give me some advice and help me out along the way, especially on travel trips.
“We just bounce off each other. It’s a pretty energetic group and I enjoy being a part of it.”
Fremantle has drafted 16 players in the past two seasons and Giro feels the group is working together for one aim.
“We love being around each other, we’re all pretty good mates and that would be the ultimate goal, winning a premiership eventually,” Giro said.
Giro said the key to beating Hawthorn on Sunday at Optus Stadium was to return to the style of football that helped Fremantle beat Port Adelaide.
“As a forwardline, we’ll look to locking it in our forward half and getting those attacking mid possession gains,” Giro said.
“If we can bring that to life, keep getting entries and get the ball in our forward 50, we’ll go on our way to winning.”
