There may have been little on the line on Monday night in terms of Fremantle’s finals aspirations, but leader Michael Walters was thrilled with what Freo’s 14-point win against Melbourne at Cazaly’s Stadium meant for the future.

Only Fremantle’s inaccuracy in front of goal with six goals from 17 scoring shots kept Melbourne in the contest in the wet in Cairns, and Walters praised the efforts of the team around the ground.

“We did (give them a chance) I’m not sure how many behinds we kicked but I know it was a lot,” Walters told Fox Footy post-game.

“But it was good, as I said, to come up here and build our game and work into next year and keep learning our craft and just keep getting better as a young group.”

Fremantle’s youth led the way with Adam Cerra scintillating with 30 disposals and a goal, while Andrew Brayshaw (21 disposals, 12 contested possessions) and Caleb Serong (18 disposals, five marks) continued their good form.

“They (Fremantle’s young players) are getting better at their craft, they’re learning their game plan,” Walters said.

“They’re putting their head over the footy and playing our trademark footy."

Walters acknowledged he had a difficult week after appearing frustrated at half time during last week’s loss to the Tigers.

The forward/midfielder was pleased to bounce back from a rough patch of form with three goals as one of Freo’s best on the night.

“It’s been a big week for myself mentally with that happened last week. There was no intentions to the coach whatsoever,” Walters said.

“My role tonight was forward and also going into some midfield. There was nothing too different from last year. It was to go down there and play my part.

“Obviously I’ve been a bit off over the past couple of weeks but that’s part and parcel of footy. You just have to get yourself moving forward and think of that next moment.”