Adam Cerra is hopeful a young Fremantle group can learn from a hard-fought RAC Derby at Optus Stadium on Saturday.
The midfielder was pleased with Freo’s fight in what he called one of the toughest games in his 24-game career.
Fremantle were 26-points down at quarter time but won each of the final three quarters to cut the final margin to 13.
“We were pleased to fight out the game and really take it to the end with them,” Cerra said.
“For a young group, there are a lot of learnings to take out of it as move on to next week (against GWS).
“(West Coast) are a mature team, most of their players have played in one or two grand finals so for a group where a lot of us are under 25 or even 22.
“We’ve been able to learn from this experience. They were a bit bigger and a lot more knowledgeable, we’re going to learn from the experience so we’re pleased with how we competed.”
Cerra felt acting captain David Mundy led from the front in the absence of Nat Fyfe.
The 33-year-old's performance was up there with the best in his career with 36 disposals and 10 clearances.
“Dave really stepped up, I think he was our best player today,” Cerra said.
“His grunt in the midfield, his maturity and knowledge that he has really directed our attack from the middle.
“He won a few big contests towards the end and really helped us to fight towards the end.”
The 19-year-old Cerra said he feels he’s building every week as he gains experience at AFL level.
“Every game I’m learning, getting better,” Cerra said.
“I do my reviews with individual coaches during the week, and continue to find ways to improve, both in my new half-back role that I’m playing as well as in the midfield.
“Each week I’ll be playing either half-back or midfield but I’m ready for the challenge and whatever position that is I’m ready to go.”
