There’s not much Michael Frederick would want to change about teammate Tobe Watson, especially after the defender played a crucial role in Fremantle’s backline during a 15-point win at Optus Stadium on Sunday.
Frederick even went in to bat for Watson’s mullet, which has attracted equal amounts of love and derision from fans.
When asked about Watson’s hair during Fremantle’s Final Siren podcast, Frederick did have some candid advice.
“Don’t grow the moustache out again!” Frederick said.
“I don’t mind the mullet; I think the mullet is alright and if I could grow hair like that I would, but I can’t.”
Watson pulled in seven marks in his sixth AFL game, while young teammate Heath Chapman also impressed in his third AFL game with 18 disposals.
Frederick also credited Reece Conca for his shutdown of Luke Breust, who was held scoreless after averaging just under 2.5 goals against Fremantle in his past 14 appearances against Freo.
“All our back six are really impressive but for Tobe to come in and do what he did today, he was just so composed with the footy,” Frederick said.
“Even ‘Chappy’ too after three AFL games, he’s pretty good!
“JL’ said we need to work on our team defence, but I thought our back six were good today and Reece Conca always does a great job on those small forwards.”
Frederick has kicked a goal in each of his three appearances in 2021 and is starting to feel settled in the Fremantle lineup.
“In pre-season the team was pretty fit, and spots were looking pretty tough.” Frederick said.
“I had the right mindset throughout the whole pre-season and kept training on a consistent basis.
“I guess I took my opportunity with two hands and I feel a lot more comfortable this year.
“Last year I felt a bit unsettled in the team…and with the footy in hand I needed to be a bit more composed.
“I feel that is coming into my game now and I’m trying to take the game on a bit more.”
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