Fremantle can take heart from the development of their younger players, according to Joel Hamling.
Hamling acknowledged the performance of fellow defender Luke Ryan after his debut in Sunday’s 20-point loss to Collingwood.
The 21-year-old half-back was limited to just seven disposals but showed intent in the contest with four tackles and two rebound 50s.
“There’s been some great signs with the young guys coming through,” Hamling said.
“Luke Ryan on the weekend, really had an influence on the game and got better as the game went on.
“We know exactly what we’re getting when a new player comes in. In Luke’s first game we knew exactly what we would get from him.”
Fremantle could see another debutant in the near future through Sean Darcy, who has impressed with Peel in the WAFL.
Darcy picked up a season-high 49 hitouts against Subiaco on Saturday and has also shown his potency up front kicking four goals against Swan Districts in round nine.
“I think (Darcy) is a chance (to debut),” Hamling said.
“There are a few guys at Peel who are playing really well.
“(Darcy’s) only 18 and he’s a big 18 year old. Ruckmen take a while to develop but Sean’s come along really well.
“He’s a big fella and he competes really hard so if he gets his chance this weekend it will be great for him.”
Fremantle have a number of ruck options heading into their round 12 clash with Brisbane on Saturday at the Gabba.
Lead ruckman Aaron Sandilands has missed the past two weeks with a hamstring injury, with Darcy a chance to debut playing dual ruck the role alongside either Sandilands or Jon Griffin.
Fremantle leads the AFL for hitouts, averaging 48.5 per game, but lost the stat 42-28 on Sunday on the back of an impressive showing by Collingwood ruckman Brodie Grundy.
“I think (Sandilands) is a great player and so is Jon Griffin,” Hamling said.
“(Griffin’s) almost played 100 AFL games now so he’s an experienced ruckman as well.
“Full credit to Brodie Grundy, he’s a great ruckman in All Australian form. It’s hard to say Aaron would have been the difference (against Collingwood) but I think Jon Griffin played his role on the weekend as well.
“Sandi’s a great player and he’s been a great ruckman for a long time now so if we get him to play in Brisbane it will be a bonus for us.”
