Fremantle forward Chris Mayne was impressed with how the team was able to hold off a late challenge from West Coast in Sunday’s NAB Challenge match.
 
Freo’s lead was out to 35 points late in the third quarter before the Eagles got to within four points in the final term, with Freo fighting back to win by 19 points.
 
Mayne couldn’t put his finger on the reasons behind the late slip, but said it was great to see the team withstand the challenge.
 
“That’s footy,” he said.
 
“I don’t think you want that to happen in any game and quality sides always keep coming.
 
“For us to be challenged in that situation and stand strong is very pleasing on the boys’ behalf.
 
“To see the boys getting around each other after the game now really shows that it means a lot to us when we play the way we want to play.
 
“To get the performance that we did today is important for us.”
 
Mayne kicked two goals in a strong performance and was back to his tackling best.

Match Highlights
 
“Really stoked with the summer I’ve had,” he said.
 
“I feel like I didn’t get the best out of myself (last year).
 
“To see that my pressure acts are still there which is a thing that I pride myself on, was definitely pleasing.”
 
Freo now has two weeks to prepare for a round one blockbuster against Port Adelaide at Domain Stadium.
 
The match will be the club’s annual Starlight Purple Haze game and Mayne is looking forward to Freo fans backing such a great event for the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
 
“Being a Starlight ambassador, I’m extremely proud to be doing this again,” Mayne said.
 
“For all our fans; get out there, dress in purple, donate as much money as possible.
 
“We want to raise as much money as we can.”