Trent Cooper believes Thursday’s RAC Derby will be a game of momentum swings, with Fremantle’s AFLW side returning to play at Optus Stadium for the first time since March this year.
Speaking alongside West Coast coach Michael Prior in a joint RAC Derby media conference two days out from the game, Cooper said being able to capitalise on momentum will play a big part in the final result.
“I think it will be a game where both sides have momentum at different stages,” Cooper said.
“It will be the side that can capitalise on that and arrest the momentum who comes out on top.”
Cooper said that Fremantle have so far performed below internal expectations so far in Season 7.
“We have performed below our expectations, not anybody else’s,” Cooper said.
“We started the season with two poor performances, particularly against Geelong, and then it was an improved performance against the Bulldogs.
“We didn’t get the game on our terms too often (in the Bulldogs game), but last week (in the draw against Carlton) we played a lot more of our Freo brand of footy.
“There is still plenty to work on, but we definitely take some momentum from that game.”
Cooper said that the side could be bolstered with the return of livewire forward Roxy Roux, while defender Madi Scanlon is a wait-and-see after hurting her wrist in the Blues clash.
“Roxy Roux will be available for selection, Madi Scanlon hurt her wrist on the weekend, so she will be doubtful at this stage,” Cooper said.
“We’ll see how Madi goes at training and, hopefully, she can get up - but she is looking more unlikely than likely at this stage.”
Prior also indicated two possible match-ups for Fremantle tall Aine Tighe on Thursday.
Listed in the womens.afl Team of The Week for her strong two-goal, 10 disposals and five-mark performance against Carlton, Tighe has enjoyed more time up forward this season.
“I think we have got a couple of options down there and we have Sophie McDonald who is playing good for us,” Prior said.
“Eleanor Hartill has been very good in her two games too, so it just depends on where (Aine) plays and how high up the ground she gets.”
