Percentage will be crucial in the race for the eight
In the crowded race to make the top eight, it’s highly likely percentage will come into the equation. As it currently sits, Fremantle is in trouble should it finish on equal points with one of the other contenders. Eighth placed St Kilda (32 points) have a percentage of 120.76, while ninth placed North Melbourne (32 points) are on 107.97. Fremantle currently sits in 10th position, equal on wins with the Saints and Roos, but have an inferior percentage of 97.60. Even 11th placed Richmond, one game behind, has 107.02. This week’s opponents, Greater Western Sydney, have lost their past two matches by 162 points to Hawthorn and 119 to Adelaide. It is imperative Fremantle is ruthless from the first bounce until the final siren against the AFL new boys.
Giant mistake to underestimate GWS says McPharlin
Defensive selections
With Zac Dawson unlikely to recover in time from a knee injury, Antoni Grover could remain in the line-up if passed fit following his last-minute withdrawal in the Melbourne game. The smaller Lee Spurr took Grover’s place and was among Freo’s best against the Demons. Peter Faulks was very impressive in WAFL action and could also come in to calculations for a key defensive spot.
Pick 71 showing promising signs
Young Freo midfielder Cam Sutcliffe forced his way into the team through his WAFL performances. He came on as a sub in the third quarter of his second AFL game last weekend and found the ball immediately. Apart from one turnover, he looked calm in possession and used the ball well. The 20-year-old should enjoy testing his skills against the young Giants midfield on Sunday. Freo may have uncovered a gem with its 71st selection from last year’s National Draft.
Will Rhys return to Patersons?
Rhys Palmer could make his first appearance against Freo, the team he left to join the Giants at the end of last season. He was hurt in a collision last Sunday, so his spot in the line-up remains tentative. If he plays, how will the Freo fans receive the 2008 AFL Rising Star?
How many can Pav kick?
Matthew Pavlich has been the form key forward in the AFL over the past five weeks, booting 24 goals. With the league’s leading goal kicker, Buddy Franklin, on the sidelines, Pavlich has a good opportunity to boot a bag against the young Giants on Sunday and stake a claim on the 2012 Coleman Medal.
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