Fremantle senior coach Ross Lyon believes it will take a team effort to stop star Demon Max Gawn as Freo prepare to take on Melbourne at the MCG on Saturday.
It will be up-and-coming ruckman Sean Darcy’s second big test in as many weeks after holding his own against Port Adelaide’s formidable ruck duo Paddy Ryder and Scott Lycett.
Gawn was Melbourne’s best in a 41-point loss to Collingwood in round 12 before the Dees’ bye in round 13.
LISTEN to The Purple Patch: Episode 2 - Duck and Oz dissect the match-up betwee Sean Darcy and Max Gawn in round 14.
Going against another star ruck in Brodie Grundy, Gawn tallied 33 hitouts and had midfielder-like numbers with 34 disposals and 10 clearances.
“It’s a different challenge (for Darcy). He’s very mobile, Max Gawn, he’s really been standing up for them and leading that club well,” Lyon said.
“It’s a big challenge and if you want to make your way in the AFL and earn a reputation, to be the best you have to beat the best.
“Sean, will hopefully get plenty of help from his teammates with Max but he’s going to have an opportunity to stand up against quality.
“We believe in Sean, we always have. Last week’s gone and he’s already preparing for Max and the challenge that lies ahead of us.”
