Every story is made up of the basic elements, the Who, What, When, Where and Why.
The outcome of a football game is no different, and here are some of the key factors that could dictate how the story unfolds in Fremantle’s clash with Richmond on Saturday.
Who – Michael Walters
Walters has been in career best form in the past few in 2016 and seems to be finding his feet after his initial transition into the midfield. Since round six, Walters has averaged 25.6 disposals, two goals and 5.3 inside 50 entries per game, compared to his career average of 14.4 touches, 1.9 goals and three inside 50s. In addition to the extra ball he’s getting around the ground, ‘Son Son’ is also getting into a scoring position, averaging 2.3 marks inside 50 a game compared to his career average of 1.5.
Earlier in the week, Walters said he’d have to utilise his quick feet around the stoppages against the big bodied Richmond midfielders, but was more than ready for the challenge.
Walters prepares for "fierce fight" with Tigers
What – The little details
While key stats such as inside 50s, clearances and kicking efficiency often hold their weight in regards to their importance in dictating a result, sometimes it’s the smaller things that can greatly impact a game.
The most minute of the little details, the often championed “one-percenters” can be the difference in key plays and it’s an advantage Fremantle hold over Richmond so far in 2016. Freo rank 9th in the AFL with 47.3 per game while Richmond are 17th, averaging 40.4. While this may seem insignificant, these actions can be impactful, such as a turnover for a score that could have been avoided if a shepherd was applied to alleviate pressure on the player kicking the ball. It may seem small, but as the old adage goes, “Greatness from small beginnings”.
When – First response
Richmond have been impressive so far in terms of getting on the scoreboard quickly, having scored the first goal of the game in six of their eight contests. Despite their fast starts, Richmond haven’t been able to capitalise on their initial momentum, having gone on to trail at quarter time in all but one of their games so far in 2016. Whoever can take the upper hand in the first quarter could go a long way in securing the win as neither Freo or Richmond have been able to consistently perform to start the game, with both averaging only 2.5 goals in the first term.
Freo midfield invigorated by new faces
Where – Defensive 50
Freo’s defenders will have to be on their toes against an efficient Richmond forward line on Saturday night. The Tigers are currently sit fourth in the AFL with marks inside 50, averaging 13.3 per game. This is helped by their bevy of tall targets such as Riewoldt, Griffiths and Vickery as well as their big bodied midfielders and solid marking small forwards.
What’s more impressive about their forward 50 marking ability is that they’ve done this despite ranking 16th in the league for inside 50s (47 per game).
Simply put, the Tigers have the forward talent to make the most of their opportunities, so it will be crucial for Freo’s defenders to answer the challenge.
Why – Budding rivalry, halting momentum
In addition to the four points that all AFL teams strive for, this game has some extra feeling to it due to the dramatic circumstances of last year’s two contests between Fremantle and Richmond.
In round 10 last year, the Tigers brought Freo’s undefeated start to the year to a halt with a 27-point win at Domain Stadium, but seven weeks later Freo travelled to the MCG and defeated the Tigers by four-points off thanks to a late game goal to David Mundy.
