Fremantle face a giant challenge this week as they travel over to Spotless Stadium for the first time ever to play Greater Western Sydney.
Currently placed fifth on the ladder with two rounds to go, the Giants have had their fair share of highlights this season including defeating ladder leaders Hawthorn.
Last week the Giants couldn’t get the job done against West Coast and Fremantle are looking to deal them their second consecutive loss on Saturday.
Match preview: Fremantle v GWS
Fremantle’s last season was a year of highs including a victory against the Giants in round 18 at home, as they cemented their place at the top of the ladder winning by 21 points.
This round held significance for the footy world in 2015 and more importantly Sydney premiership player Adam Goodes.
Goodes was being heavily ‘booed’ by football crowds, following the game against Carlton where he performed an indigenous war cry after scoring a goal.
A group of decorated indigenous players in the AFL contacted each other, organising to show their support for Goodes through Aboriginal dance.
When Michael Walters celebrated after kicking his first of four goals against the Giants, he said he was proud to rally behind the Sydney great.
“It was a pretty special moment for me, especially in my footy career,” Walters said.
“I am quite blessed that I did it, because everyone got behind me, everyone sort of cheered it and everyone was pretty much waiting for it.”
Lachie Neale ran riot in the midfield collecting 38 disposals and laying five tackles leading a relentless midfield effort from Fremantle.
David Mundy collected 31 touches and Stephen Hill provided outside run with 32 possessions.
The back line was at its best as Lee Spurr (31 possessions) and recently retired great Luke McPharlin (27 possessions) rebounded brilliantly off halfback.
Fremantle fans were also treated to a glimpse into the future when Lachie Weller took off the green vest to play his first senior game for the club, which was greeted by thunderous applause.
Giants clash a glimpse into Fremantle's future
Since debut Weller has continued to develop, being one of eight players to play 22 games or less against the Crows last week.
With youth the focus for the rest of the season Michael Walters said there is plenty of room for improvement.
“All the senior players around the club who have been around for six or seven years are trying to help fast track these guys and the sooner we do that the better we will be.”
Fremantle take on the Giants this Saturday at Spotless Stadium with the match starting at 2:35pm WST.
