NEW FREMANTLE recruits Scott Gumbleton and Colin Sylvia should not be marked harshly for quiet debuts in the NAB Challenge match on Tuesday, according to Dockers assistant coach Peter Sumich.

Sylvia had just five possessions in the game against the Eagles and Gumbleton had six, although the former Bomber did kick two of the Dockers' 10 goals.

Following the 84-point thrashing, Sumich said it was tough to single out players in what was a disappointing performance overall.

"It was a tough day for everyone," Sumich said.

"To bracket them (Sylvia and Gumbleton) is going to be difficult. We'll look over the tape and go back over things but to bracket Sylvia, Gumbleton and a few others on a difficult day is pretty harsh.

"I think they have been outstanding in our training program. Like I said, a difficult day for everyone, not only them.

"They have some NAB Challenge games coming up and hopefully they can press for round one."

The Dockers had 17 of the 22 from their Grand Final side playing against West Coast, although Matthew Pavlich and Luke McPharlin started as subs.

Sumich admitted the 2013 runner-up was behind in their preparation but refused to use it as an excuse.

"We're a 'no excuse' football club," Sumich said.

"We're not going to say we're behind and they are the reasons.

"We're looking forward to Collingwood. I wouldn't say we're a month behind, but we need to get going."

Ryan Crowley and Chris Mayne were notable absentees from Tuesday's loss.

Sumich said those players were not injured, and both would come into contention for next Wednesday's clash with the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium.

"Crowley would be a likely one, but he's got to get through training all week," Sumich said.

"Hopefully he can get through that.

"Both of them just need training time. They're both out on the track training."