2010 was a year that saw Fremantle secure sixth place on the AFL ladder and an elimination final victory over the much-fancied Hawks.
It was also the year Freo claimed their biggest margin in what is arguably WA's most anticipated game, the Carlton Draught Western Derby.
The Eagles were unable to keep up with Mark Harvey’s men, who were desperate to hold onto fifth place. With a mere 10 points separating Fremantle and Hawthorn, the prospect of a home final was enough to push them a 13.8 (160) to 4.4 (85) victory.
The team showcased an intimidating forward line of Matthew Pavlich, Aaron Sandilands and dynamic small forward Hayden Ballantyne, who kicked six goals straight to announce his arrival on the big stage.
Pavlich (four goals) was among a list of 11 goal kickers, which also included fan favourites Paul Haselby and Roger Hayden.
Tickets still available for Sunday's match
Fremantle were so dominant in the first term they prevented Eagles leading goal kicker Mark LeCras from registering a disposal.
With 40,451 fans in attendance, Fremantle dominated in contested possessions (+24) and inside 50s (+21).
Sandilands controlled the ruck contests against Dean Cox and Nic Naitanui, to finish with 33 hit-outs and a Ross Glendenning Medal to boot.
The ruckman will be hoping for just as good a game on Sunday when he makes his first appearance since round three, after fracturing his ribs and puncturing a lung backing into a marking contest with Naitanui.
The 33-year-old said he was excited to make his return.
Talking Points v West Coast
“The body is good, I feel good, it’s just a matter of getting back out there and getting the match fitness back,” Sandilands said.
The two-time Doig Medallist will face West Coast for the last time with fellow best-and-fairest winner Pavlich, alongside whom he has played 229 games.
“He’s been a special player and a special part of this footy club and I’ll enjoy running round with him for the next four weeks,” he said.
Bounce down for the Carlton Draught Derby is at 2:40pm at Domain Stadium on Sunday.
Fremantle will be ready to hit the ground running in an attempt to replicate the outcome of round 18, 2010.
