Fremantle’s youngsters have impressed over the past three weeks, but it wasn’t their actions, but rather their response to adversity that impressed against Port Adelaide, according to Michael Barlow.
 
Barlow said a number of players found it challenging to get into the game against a quality team like Port Adelaide, but their resilience was admirable and a highly valued trait within the playing group.
 
“You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to know that they’re the future of the club and over the next eight to 10 years,” he said.
 
“It’s a real character trait that this group has built over the past three or four years. The ability to stay in the moment, not be dictated by poor results, and knowing that you can still contribute in a meaningful way.”
 
Round 11 Rising Star nominee Connor Blakely finished with 21 disposals against Port Adelaide, and Barlow said his hard-nosed approach and ability to work his way into the game was influential on Saturday.

Lyon post-match Q & A: Rd 13 v Port Adelaide
 
“Connor (Blakely) really grinded his way back into the game and was really important around the stoppages,” he said.
 
“His hardness has really improved since he’s been in the team and there are a few examples of a really positive, young, tough group that’s coming through.”
 
In addition to Freo’s crop of youngsters, Barlow also praised the performance of ruckman Zac Clarke.
 
Clarke finished with 15 touches and 43 hit outs and shouldered an increased workload due to Tanner Smith suffering a hamstring injury in the third quarter.
 
Barlow said it was an important performance as the big man aims to solidify his spot in the team.
 
“’Clarkey’ is one of a kind,” he laughed.
 
“We all know how much talent he has and the heights he’s reached in the past. He’s had a few setbacks with injury and today was a really good sign in the direction he’s going.
 
“He still has a lot of work to do and the competition for spots is really strong across the group. He’s under no illusions that one week doesn’t get it done and he’ll butter up again for a big challenge next week against Collingwood.”