Fremantle’s pressure on the ball carrier wasn’t good enough in their 32-point loss to Melbourne, according to midfielder Lachie Neale.
 
Neale, who collected 32 possessions, said the team’s first half defensive effort wasn’t up to the standard expected, as Melbourne moved to a 42-point lead by half-time.
 
“I think we had nine tackles in the second quarter, which isn’t enough the way that they play," Neale said.
 
“They got out the back on us and we didn’t run and spread as hard as what we needed to, which was probably the difference in the end”.
 
Melbourne transitioned quickly through the midfield, which allowed their forward line to lead into space, stretching Fremantle’s defence.

Lyon post-match Q & A
 
Neale said Fremantle needed to show more desire to pressure the ball carrier, as Melbourne won contested possessions 149 – 128 in the slippery conditions.
 
“It comes down to work-rate, and guys desire to run and chase, and we didn’t do that tonight," he said.
 
Melbourne dominated possession, and made use of the football, going inside 50 on 67 occasions as they kicked their highest first-quarter score since 2012.
 
Fremantle were competitive around the stoppages, and despite Melbourne winning the hit-outs 47-31, they only managed three more clearances then Freo.

Talking points from Melbourne loss
 
Neale said Fremantle’s forward line worked hard, with Hayden Ballantyne leading by example.
 
“He always brings that sort of effort, we know what we’re going to get from Ballas week-in and week-out," he said.
 
“That’s why he’s played so many games and why we rate him so highly, because of his pressure.”
 
With the match against Geelong six days away, Neale said the focus shifts to recovery, with the players told to rest and hydrate.
 
“It takes it out of us a bit up here in Darwin, and it’s going to be the most important thing coming off a six day break is our preparation for next week," he said.