The prolific midfielder lined up against Port Adelaide despite an original prognosis that had him returning to action from a broken thumb in the first week of the finals.
Barlow gathered 27 disposals and was integral to Freo’s eight-point win that secured a double chance.
He admitted to feeling a bit nervous heading into the clash against the Power, but after the game he said his thumb was fine.
“I was just having a joke with Ross (Lyon) that I should have played last week,” Barlow said.
“It’s not perfect, but no worse than what I went into the game with.
“I’m really happy and confident that I'm 100 per cent cherry-ripe to go next week.”
Freo kicked clear of Port with a devastating third-quarter burst, but five late goals to the visitors gave them a hope.
Barlow said it was pleasing to hold on in what was a fierce contest all day.
“I think it’s a sign that the team has really matured and it’s a team that wants sustained success,” he said.
“We’ll address what went on in that last quarter but also acknowledge where we won the game.
“I’m just really thrilled to be part of a really solid performance, get the result and give ourselves a really good chance going forward.”
Freo’s first opponent in the finals will either be Sydney or Hawthorn, but it’s the Swans at ANZ Stadium that appears the most likely scenario.
Barlow said the team did not care who or where it played.
“I’ve never been to ANZ stadium, but we’ll let that play itself out,” he said.
“It could still be Hawthorn.
“We’ll just enjoy the moment, have a recovery day, Monday day off and review the game on Tuesday and have a really good look at what’s ahead.
“It’s just good to be alive at this stage of the year.”
