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Match day Information: AFLW Round 2 v Geelong

Coming off the track at Optus Stadium on Wednesday, midfielder Blake Acres commented on it being one of the most intense training sessions of the year.

Despite the unfortunate loss of Nat Fyfe with a hamstring injury, the players have good reason to leave everything on the track, with Freo boasting high player availability combined with good form at both AFL and WAFL level heading into Saturday’s elimination final against the Western Bulldogs.

As well as Fremantle’s three game winning run, Peel have won five of their past six games, including a 73-point win against West Coast on Saturday.

Acres said there was a real hunger to be a part of Freo’s first finals appearance since 2015.

“Our Saturday session was pretty hot,” Acres said.

“The session before everyone was having a real crack and a lot of guys went on to put their hands up in the WAFL on the weekend, they had a good win.

“There’s a real hunger to get in the team now. It’s great for competition for spots going into finals. It keeps everyone accountable and everyone needs to play well.”

Main Training 31 August

See all the photos from Wednesday's training session at Optus Stadium
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Both Fremantle and the Bulldogs have been handed blows at the selection table with Fyfe and Tom Liberatore to miss with hamstring injuries.

Acres doesn’t expect either side to be impacted despite two stars of the game being on the sidelines.

“Both teams are going to bring 100 per cent effort and nothing changes,” Acres said.

“Fyfey is a massive part of our team and a part of the Club. It’s disappointing that he’s missing the game, he’s had a shocking run the past couple of years.

“We’ll be putting our best foot forward for him and for Dave (Mundy) as well. It will be his last game at Optus Stadium so we’ll be trying to get the win for them.”

02:39

'We're going to expect their best' | Blake Acres

We caught up with The Sheriff after main training at Optus Stadium today as he fills us in on how the boys are preparing to tackle the Dogs.

While the game has sold out and is likely to break Fremantle’s attendance record at Optus Stadium, Acres said the group will be prepared for the atmosphere thanks to the Purple Army coming out and supporting the team all year.

Freo finished the home and away season fourth in attendance with an average of just over 40,460 per game.

“It’s going to be loud and good fun!” Acres said.

“The crowds have been here most of the year so it’s going to be loud again and I can’t wait.”

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