Top-two finish?

Ross Lyon was asked if Saturday’s game is critical to the club’s hopes of a top two finish. A realist, Lyon summed up the importance of the Simonds Stadium clash. “I don’t think you have to be a genius to work out it’s going to be a critical part of that equation,” he said. “It makes it a really important game. Every moment, every training session and every four points available is really critical.”

Stevie J beats the charge

Ryan Crowley and Joel Selwood would have been keeping a close eye on the AFL Tribunal on Tuesday night, where Geelong’s Steve Johnson beat a kneeing charge. An incredible competitor, Crowley can now look forward to resuming his battle with Johnson. Selwood, who is having a fantastic season, would have been the likely target for the Crowley clamp had Stevie J failed to beat the charge. Johnson was facing his third missed game against Fremantle after suspension had denied him appearances in the 2012 Elimination Final and last year’s round 14 match in Geelong.

Sylvia hamstrung

Melbourne recruit Colin Sylvia injured himself at training and will be out of action. “Colin Sylvia’s got a hamstring, so he won’t play in the next few weeks,” Lyon said.

HBF Injury Update

Loud Thunder noises

Most of the 17 Fremantle Dockers who played for Peel last weekend performed very well in the big win over Perth. A number are putting their hands up for selection. A spot has definitely opened up with Tendai Mzungu to miss a couple of weeks with a hamstring injury. Small forwards Hayden Crozier and Max Duffy were strong against the Demons, as was midfielder Anthony Morabito. Michael Wood kicked five goals, while talls Alex Silvagni, Matt Taberner and Jack Hannath were also good and have AFL experience. Sam Menegola was another who performed admirably. He was upgraded onto the senior list recently and travelled to the game against St Kilda as an emergency. Menegola is a rival to Mzungu in regards to elite endurance abilities at Freo and could also come under consideration. The Freo Line-Up at 4.25pm (WST) on Thursday will reveal who gets a gig against Geelong.