The ruck champion was instrumental in Fremantle’s 19-point victory over West Coast in Carlton Draught Derby 39.
He had 21 disposals and 38 hitouts to finish a runner-up behind Lachie Neale in the Ross Glendinning Medal voting.
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A pre-game presentation in the change rooms kicked off the three-time All-Australian’s special day.
His family, including parents Gary and Trudi and siblings Chad and Niki, were present, as was his wife Jenny and baby daughter Sloane.
Teammate and friend Kepler Bradley presented Sandilands with his match jumper.
“It was a special moment to have my family and my wife and daughter in the change rooms, and Kepler Bradley presenting me my jumper in my 200th,” Sandilands said.
“It was pretty special and a memory I’ll cherish.”
He also took Sloane through the team’s banner when Fremantle entered the playing arena.
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After the game, ‘Sandi’ said he was extremely proud of his teammates’ great effort in the Derby.
“It was a great four-quarter effort,” he said.
“We haven’t been anywhere near our best in the past couple of weeks, and we knew that against a quality side like West Coast we had to put four quarters together.
“The effort from the guys today was sensational.”
Fremantle looked shaky at half-time, with Luke McPharlin already having been down in the rooms for treatment on his upper right leg, and fellow defender Zac Dawson subbed off with an ankle injury.
Match Report: Fremantle v West Coast
Sandilands said the win highlighted the character and resilience of the team.
“It was great that we did fight through and put the effort out there,” he said.
“When things aren’t going your way with injury, to keep on going and keep playing (well) is great.”
