Fremantle Dockers forward Hayden Ballantyne hopes to be a key contributor along with his forward line teammates, in deciding this Saturday’s Carlton Draught derby against the West Coast Eagles
Getting the win against a formidable Eagles defence will require a similar performance to last week’s from Freo’s forwards, who are beginning to click as a unit, according to Ballantyne.
“We’ll keep sticking to what we’ve been doing,” he said.
“That’s working for each other, putting a few blocks on, and trying to help each other out.
“We’re building some chemistry down there and hopefully we’ll continue to do that this week.”
Ballantyne kicked four goals last week, and while it was a solid return, he said he wouldn’t rest on his laurels as he continues to improve his game.
“One game isn’t much really, so if I can continue to do that over the next few weeks I’ll be a bit happier.”
The derby against West Coast has been a happy hunting ground for Ballantyne, but the small forward will play his first game against the Eagles since 2014 after missing both games last season.
While the rivalry captures the imagination of the WA football landscape, he has made a concerted effort to remain relaxed heading into the game.
“There’s always been a lot of hype around the game,” Ballantyne said.
“The whole town gets excited and there’s a bit of rivalry.
“But to be honest, I haven’t noticed as much this time as I’ve stayed away from the news.”
Freo Dockers women ready for derby clash
Don’t mistake his lack of attention as a lack of excitement, as Ballantyne said that while his approach wouldn’t change, beating the Eagles would have its benefits.
“There’s a big build up to every game, and I get excited about every game,” he said.
“I’d like to go home and talk to my family though, because most of my family are West Coast supporters so I’d like to get the win.”
The curtain raiser will see the Freo Dockers women’s team play in their first derby against the Eagles, and Ballantyne said it was a great opportunity to showcase women’s footy in WA.
“It’s great to see the ladies getting involved in footy,” he said.
“Hopefully they go out there, have a bit of fun, enjoy themselves and the Freo girls get the job done.”
