Fremantle defender Jess Low spoke following Fremantle’s four-point defeat to Carlton at home on Saturday afternoon, and said it was a disappointing loss as their lead slipped away in the final minutes of the match.

“We thought we had control of the game, especially during the third quarter, but then let it go late, so we were pretty disappointed,” Low said.

Despite not taking home the four-points, it was a milestone day for midfielder Aish McCarthy, who played her 50th AFLW game, with her family from Ireland even making the trip.

Low was full of praise for McCarthy, who is on track to have a career-best season.

“Aish has been massive for us,” Low said.

“She’s only been here for one season – seven games, but the amount of effort she puts into her daily routine and her recovery, and also just learning the game plan.

“She fits in so well, she makes herself better every day, but she also brings a lot of others with her. She’s the best.”

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In the absence of co-vice-captain Hayley Miller, Low said the midfield were able to stand up, with special mention to Gabby Newton who had 23 disposals, nine tackles and six clearances.

“Lots of our mids are quite versatile, so I think they all did well,” Low said.

“They’re used to that forward-mid rotation and they’re all dynamic at stoppage.”

Low was thrilled to see backline teammate Ash Brazill kick her first goal in purple.

“(It was) so good. I was on the bench, and I don’t often stand up because I like my rest, but I was on my feet and ran straight back on after my rotation,” Low said.

“I think that was our first 'backies' goal for the year, so I need to re-watch it because I didn’t get a good angle, but I was very excited.”

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As the team look ahead to the RAC Derby on Saturday afternoon, Low said it’s always a well-anticipated game each year.

“We’ll take (Sunday) off just to reset and recover, but I think the RAC Derby is one we always look forward to every year so much,” Low said.

“We know all the girls really well, we know how Eagles play, and we’ve both come off losses, so both teams will be really eager to get the four-points this week.”

Fremantle currently sixth on the ladder and will take on the 10th-placed West Coast Eagles on Saturday 19 October at Leederville Oval for the RAC Derby at 4.05pm WST.

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