Despite an undefeated start to the season, Fremantle defender Garrick Ibbotson believes there is plenty of room for improvement after Freo’s 30-point win over West Coast at Domain Stadium.
Ibbotson had 22 disposals and lead the way in rebounding from Freo’s defensive 50.
“When the game was up for grabs I think the boys worked really hard and played to our structures and did what we were asked,” Ibbotson said.
“But in saying that, there is some improvement after the second half of the game.”
Freo made a blistering start to the game, kicking the first 11 goals and Ibbotson hailed the team’s engine room.
“It started in the midfield, they were outstanding in the first half and really got to work in there,” Ibbotson said.
“We always know that starting well gives you the best opportunity to win a game.
“That’s what we focus on each week, to make sure we put our head over the ball and get into the contests and do everything we can early to really set ourselves up for the end of the game.”
With the lead extending to 79 points early in the third term, West Coast kicked nine of the last 10 goals to lose by 30 points.
“The way they finished the game was obviously a bit stronger than ours,” Ibbotson said.
“They were really good out of the midfield and put us under the pump in defence.
“We didn’t really defend very well in the last quarter, so we have a bit of improvement there.
“The first half we were really organised as a group.
“It really helps when the midfield is putting pressure on the ball carrier, it makes our job a lot easier as a defender.”
Fremantle will now host Sydney in the annual Len Hall Tribute Game on Anzac Day and Ibbotson is looking forward to the challenge.
In last year’s Qualifying Final against the Swans, Ibbotson had a floating role in defence and he was exceptional in kick-starting Freo’s attack from the back.
“I’ve got no idea (on who I’ll play on) to be honest, but it will be a big game,” Ibbotson said.
“It’s always big when we play Sydney and they’ve been in good form.
“I’ve got some improvement to do with my positioning and that sort of thing.
“It’s something I’m working on every week, especially when I’m playing on different sized opponents; tall and small, and that will be a challenge on Saturday.”
Fremantle hosts Sydney on Saturday 25 April.
Bounce down is 6.40pm at Domain Stadium.
Plenty of improvement in Freo, says Ibbotson
Despite an undefeated start to the season, Fremantle defender Garrick Ibbotson believes there is plenty of room for improvement