In another nail-biting contest, it was a thrilling goal kicked by Aish McCarthy after the final siren that led Fremantle to victory against Melbourne, after being 18-points behind heading into the final quarter.
With Melbourne holding the lead throughout the entire match, Fremantle’s home crowd got up and about during an impressive final quarter effort by the team in purple.
Senior Coach Lisa Webb spoke to the media post-match and commended her side for the grit shown in the second half following a slow start impacted by the wind.
“Credit to the girls. Everything we threw at them they changed and worked to plan, and we were happy to get the win,” Webb said.
“To be honest it’s just the girls seeing that belief. I knew they could do this; we’ve been saying it for a while.
“To be able to come back from behind against a really good team – we obviously had some challenges throughout it, so it’s more just giving the girls that belief and understanding that when we get to work, we can play a really good brand of footy."
When asked what went through her mind as McCarthy was seconds away from kicking the decider, Webb emphasised how important she is for the side.
“That was hectic,” Webb said.
“I reckon she had it. She’s a cool, calm and collected character and really important for us.
“We just needed her to score to be honest – just really pleased with her efforts.”
Webb praised utility Gabby O’Sullivan, who started her year in the backline, but has spent the past two weeks up forward, and booted three majors for the match.
“She’s phenomenal. Just her pressure (too), I thought she got us in the contest, especially when we needed to really lift,” Webb said.
“Her pressure is amazing, she’s got that great step, which she’s keen to show at training and I’m just pleased for that reward.
“She’s a delightful person, she got life membership this week, so she’s had a pretty good week.”
Looking ahead, Webb said the side will get to work as they look to take on St Kilda next Friday at RSEA Park in Melbourne.
“It's an exciting time for us – we’ve shown what we can do especially when we’re under pressure, and put in a good performance,” Webb said.
“I want the girls to sit in it and enjoy these moments and then we’ve just got to get to work again.”
