It was a disappointing three-point loss to the Western Bulldogs at Ikon Park but a dampener on what was a promising evening for Fremantle as they re-established their brand in Season 7.
Freo fell to 0-3 for the season as they fell short with easily their best performance of the season as they took the unbeaten Bulldogs to the wire.
New recruit Nikki Gore was given one of the toughest roles of the night on AFLW star Ellie Blackburn in what was the Bulldog's 50th game.
Gore almost matched Blackburn’s output with 16 disposals compared to her 19, and won a crucial holding the ball free kick against Blackburn that allowed Kiara Bowers to take advantage and send the ball forward.
“I think Nikki Gore impressed me most, she took that role with both hands, I think she gets my votes today,” defender Sarah Verrier said.
‘It was a huge role to take on and I think she’ll keep getting better and better.”
The addition of Gore and Megan Kauffman has allowed Fremantle to add to their midfield depth behind their star mids Kiara Bowers and Hayley Miller.
“We have some big, solid bodies through the midfield now and we’re trying to get that balance through it all,” Verrier said.
“Obviously, today we were better than the previous weeks and we’re looking to improve by getting that depth through there.
“Megan is very solid, we’re very lucky to have her. She’s come from amateurs and that’s pretty special that she can just jump to AFLW level.
“She got on the end of a good goal today which was good.”
Verrier said the group was flat after letting a great opportunity slip to secure their first win of the season.
“It definitely was heartbreaking,” Verrier said.
“We think we kept them on their toes throughout the game but unfortunately they got that last goal at the end.
“I think we can take some really positive aspects out of it today. We’re proud, but obviously disappointed.”
Drafted at no.14 in 2020, Verrier raced to the 25 game milestone and feels she still has more improvement to come.
“I obviously didn’t get to celebrate with the four points today but I’m getting more confidence with each game,” Verrier said.
“I’m very happy with how I’m going and I just want to keep getting better."
