Fremantle’s nine-point win against Port Adelaide on Sunday at Optus Stadium was crucial to reverse the team’s fortunes, according to midfielder Lachie Neale.
After back-to-back losses by more than 50 points, Fremantle thwarted the Power’s bid for a sixth-consecutive victory.
Neale led Fremantle in many key statistical categories, including disposals (33), contested possessions (18) and clearances (9).
He also delivered seven inside 50s, behind only David Mundy, who had eight.
“It was great, we’ve obviously come off a tough couple of weeks where we haven’t played out best footy,” Neale said post-game on the Fox Footy broadcast.
“It’s really important for our fans, members and the playing group and everyone involved that we get that win.”
Fremantle slowed slightly late in the game - allowing the Power to kick the final two goals - but Neale felt such drop offs can happen with a young lineup.
With an average age of 23.88, Fremantle’s starting 22 was the third youngest of the round while the Power’s was the second oldest at 26.07.
Fremantle also fielded 10 players with 30 games experience or less compared to Port Adelaide’s two.
“(Port Adelaide) got going a little bit (late in the game),” Neale said.
“I think for us, we do have a young side and it’s about going to the end and that’s going to take time.
“It’s not going to happen overnight. They’ve still got to build that fitness up.
“That will take time but the more often we can go to the end the better.”
Neale praised first-year player Adam Cerra, who laid eight tackles and collected 19 disposals.
“He was fantastic again today,” Neale said.
“He was really smooth and so clean over the footy, tough and has really good skills as well.
“He’s one to really watch out for for us.”
