Silvagni partnered McPharlin’s regular key defensive partner Zac Dawson in last Sunday’s 28-point win over West Coast.
The 25-year-old was as solid as ever, taking a number of intercept marks and spoiling strongly against Eagle forwards Josh Kennedy, Jack Darling and Josh Hill.
Silvagni said McPharlin worked with him during the week to study opponents and also offered his wisdom at the main break of Sunday’s game.
“Luke’s got a wealth of knowledge and he’s such a great defender, it’s great to use him as a resource,” Silvagni said.
“He’s been taking on and beating the best forwards for years, so why not utilise someone like that at the club?”
Silvagni also lauded the up-field pressure Freo’s midfielders and forwards applied to help make the defence’s job easier.
“If the ball’s coming in pressured it’s a lot easier to defend, but if the ball’s coming in lace-out and their midfielders are streaming forward, it’s the worst position to be in, the last line of defence,” he said.
Silvagni said the structure and selflessness of Fremantle’s back six had also helped him slot in without hassle.
“They work so well together, guys like ‘Johnno’ (Michael Johnson) and ‘Ibbo’ (Garrick Ibbotson) and ‘Spurry’ (Lee Spurr), they always roll off and help you out,” he said.
The defender labelled this Sunday’s opponents Richmond as a quality side, spearheaded up forward by the dangerous Jack Riewoldt.
“I’ve played on him before, but we’ve got Zac (Dawson) down there, too, who is a quality key defender,” Silvagni said.
“I’m not too sure what will happen, it’s up to Ross (Lyon) and the rest of the match committee.
“I’ve got to get a game first.”
