Emerging Fremantle key forward Matt Taberner starred in Freo’s opening NAB Challenge win and thinks the team’s tough pre-season is beginning to pay off.

Taberner booted three goals in the 18-point victory over Melbourne at Fremantle Oval and looked impressive in Freo’s tall forward line with fellow youngster Michael Apeness and captain Matthew Pavlich.

The skipper was also able to kick three goals in a typically strong showing.

Taberner believes months working together in the pre-season came to fruition in the first competitive hit-out of the year.

TALL TIMBER SHOWS PROMISE

“There was a big emphasis this pre-season on working well as a forward group,” he said.

“We have a taller forward line than last year with (Zac) Clarke, (Jon) Griffin, ‘Pav’ and Apeness being able to roll through there.

“It was really positive at times.”

Taberner also hailed Freo’s ability to close down the Demons in hot conditions.

“(It was) really good…I thought we came out early on and applied enormous pressure,” he said.

“It dropped off a bit in the second half, but it’s good to get through the game and we got through unscathed, so that’s good.”

While the focus isn’t solely on winning, Taberner is pleased the team was able to win in front of the adoring Purple Army at Fremantle Oval.

“I think it’s been a few years since the last game here,” he said.

“Plenty of people came down which was great on a hot day.

“It’s all about getting the run into our legs and applying the things we have been practicing in pre-season and putting it on the park."