Veteran Fremantle defender Luke McPharlin can’t wait for this Sunday as Freo hosts Port Adelaide in a blockbuster round one opener at Domain Stadium.

The match will be the first of a run of tough games, which McPharlin is looking forward to being involved in.

Match preview: Fremantle v Port Adelaide

“It’s really exciting…I think our first few rounds are against some of the quality sides from last year,” McPharlin said.

“We start the season with a bang, it would be good to demonstrate where we’re at as a football team.

“I think everyone at this point in time thinks they’re going to win it and is super fit and excited and we’re no different.

“But then the real business starts and we’ll see whose been kidding themselves and who is a genuine contender.”

While the likes of Zac Dawson and Alex Silvagni will miss the match through injury, McPharlin is confident the Freo defence will be able to withstand the pressure.

“I think we were able to handle their talls to an extent last year, given that we had a couple of key defenders missing in the final and also round 23, as well,” he said.

“We’re able to contain it as long as the pressure on the ball is outstanding.

“We always look to our midfield to get the game going and win the ball and get it going in our direction.

“If that is going well, then we’ll be better placed to defend.

“But if we’re in some trouble in midfield and they’re winning it too easily and coming out too easily it doesn’t matter what defence you have, you’re going to be under pressure.”

McPharlin expects to line up on the either Jay Schulz or John Butcher and expects a tough contest.

“They’ve got quality talls, they’ve got quality smalls,” he said.

“They’ve got a very powerful forward line and so regardless of what comes, it’s going to be a challenge.”

Sunday’s match is the club’s annual Starlight Purple Haze game supported by Fremantle Ports.

Get your purple on for your chance to WIN!

Bounce down is 4.40pm.

Tickets are still available to the game via Ticketmaster.