In one of WA’s biggest rivalries, Fremantle took home the RAC Derby win for the seventh time in a row on Saturday afternoon, victorious over the Eagles by 23 points.
Ruck Mim Strom continued her career-best form, finishing the game with an equal-league record of 48 hit-outs, 15 disposals, seven tackles and three clearances.
Senior Coach Lisa Webb spoke to media post-match, commending Strom’s consistent performances week-in-week-out.
"We put a heavy reliance on Mim and we just know how reliable she is and she’s becoming a remarkable player,” Webb said.
“I think she played 96 per cent game time up against some great rucks so that's an exceptional effort from her.
“She’s impressive, she just gets to work every week. She probably doesn’t ride the highs as high and the lows as low. She’s one that can manage (it) and anchor back as we say and get to work every single Monday.”
Webb credited Strom’s brother Zac, who took on the duties as Fremantle’s ruck coach this season.
“We’ve obviously got her brother in as a ruck coach. He’s been a great sounding board for her,” Webb said.
“It’s a big game for her today – to stick it out for four quarters is impressive.”
Reflecting on the win, Webb was pleased with her side’s strong start and ability to capitalise on opportunities.
“I thought the girls had that strong intent from the start,” Webb said.
“They were fiercely determined to do well as they always are, but we just got it right early, which set us up.
“I was proud that we got to work. (West Coast) came hard and we knew they would, so just glad we fought it out.”
Midfielder and former Eagle Aish McCarthy put on a show against her former side, with 20 disposals, 11 tackles, five clearances and a goal.
“I know this was a big game for her,” Webb said on McCarthy.
“It’s tough coming up against your opposition team and I’m just proud of the brand of footy she’s playing.”
Webb praised the new recruits for their efforts in their first RAC Derby, experiencing the WA rivalry and the atmosphere that comes with it.
“It’s quite interesting seeing your Gabby Newton, your Ash Braz and Gabba (Biedenweg-Webster) – they haven’t experienced anything like it, so for them to come in and play their role in a big game (is amazing),” Webb said.
“Gabs (Biedenweg-Webster) can take a great mark as we saw, but she’s got electric pace.
“We thought that might test their defence a bit. I’m proud of her. She’s another one that’s just come in and played her role and this week she got a couple for it.”
Fremantle will have a seven-day break following their RAC Derby win, and face the GWS Giants on Saturday 26 October, 11.05am WST at Henson Park in Sydney.
