Fremantle are heading into this week’s Semi-Final match against Adelaide with big belief among the group as well as an 'all-in' mentality that has held them in good stead for the 2024 season.
Inaugural Fremantle players Ebony Antonio and Gabby O’Sullivan spoke to media on Thursday morning about the feelings heading into the do-or-die clash and what they will need for a win.
“(We are) feeling really excited. It’s been a few years since we’ve been here, so the girls are raring to go and we’re looking to get a win against the Crows,” Antonio said.
“Our record on the road this year has been fantastic and coming to finals it’s a whole different ball game.
“We’ve had strong belief that no matter who (is out there), it’s an all-in effort and for girls to step up this year it’s been fantastic.”
Antonio said while the group don’t look too far ahead and will focus on the task at hand in Adelaide, there is a shared desire to make history.
“The ultimate goal is to win a premiership,” Antonio said.
“We’ve been chasing it ever since the inception and 'Gabby O' and I have been here since 2017, so we’re itching to hold Fremantle’s first premiership cup.”
O’Sullivan will become the second Fremantle player to reach her 75th AFLW match in this weekend’s thrilling match-up.
“We love (Gabby) dearly and what she’s been able to achieve throughout 75 games is fantastic,” Antonio said on O’Sullivan.
“Not only is she a great football player, but she’s one of my best mates.
“It's nice to play footy with Gabs – she wears her heart on her sleeve, and she’s done a fantastic job.
“Life member this year, so credit to herself and what she’s achieved.”
O’Sullivan reflected on her journey at Fremantle over the past seven years and praised her teammates and the shared belief going into this weekend.
“I got to reflect a bit when I was inducted as a life member and I go back to the first game against Western Bulldogs at Whitten Oval and I think it’s only now that I can see how far the comp has come,” O’Sullivan said.
“When I started, I didn’t have grey hair and Ebony could actually get a vertical.
“It’s super rewarding to still be playing and like Epps said before, we’re itching for success.
“We’ve been in it for a long time and it’s a great opportunity to run out for the 75th time this weekend.
“We’ve got a strong group of girls and I’ve never seen the belief so high in this group, so we’re looking forward to Saturday.
“It's do-or-die for both teams, so it’s going to be hot footy, but we know we have to be at our best.”