A Young Star's Midfield Masterclass Ignites Fremantle's Dominance!
Get ready, because Fremantle's engine room just got a serious upgrade! In a performance that screamed "we're here to contend," young gun Murphy Reid has unequivocally announced his readiness to conquer the midfield, leading the Dockers to a 16-point victory over Adelaide at Rushton Park this past Saturday. It wasn't just a win; it was a statement, with Reid orchestrating play and Josh Treacy delivering a five-goal clinic that ultimately sealed the deal.
While Reid was busy racking up an equal game-high 30 disposals, sending a clear message to the rest of the league, it was Treacy's potent forward presence that truly turned the tide. He single-handedly dismantled Adelaide's defense, bagging five crucial goals. This powerful display saw Fremantle claw their way back from a fourth-quarter deficit to secure a 12.12 (84) to 9.14 (68) win.
But here's where it gets interesting... The Crows, despite building a 12-point lead in the final term, will be left to ponder what went wrong. They certainly have takeaways from the game, but Fremantle's deep and dynamic midfield was undeniably the star of the show, setting them up as genuine contenders for the 2026 season.
And this is the part most people miss... The versatility of Luke Jackson was on full display. He seamlessly transitioned between ruck, midfield, and forward, proving an aerial menace and a constant threat throughout the match. This flexibility was significantly enabled by the strong form of recruit Mason Cox in the ruck. Cox's impressive performance in the ruck allowed Jackson the freedom to roam, a luxury Fremantle will be weighing up as they prepare for their season opener against Geelong, especially with Sean Darcy successfully returning from a calf injury in a WAFL practice game with managed minutes.
Coach Longmuir was particularly impressed with Cox, noting, "He had real impact when he came on and I thought he was more physical around contests. He really looked to own the opposition ruck and I thought his second efforts were strong. So, yeah, I was happy with the way it went." He also lauded Reid's evolution, stating, "He's been great. He's evolved his game and we're using him slightly different, but he's having an impact wherever we use him."
From the get-go, Jackson was in the thick of it, snapping the opening goal from a stoppage. Reid showcased his newfound running prowess, initiating a play from half-back that culminated in a forward entry. Meanwhile, Treacy was a constant target, booting two early goals.
Adelaide did manage to capitalize on a strong wind in the first quarter, with draftee Mitchell Marsh launching a remarkable 65m goal. They finished the term with a nine-point lead, thanks to contributions from Jordan Dawson and Darcy Fogarty.
However, the tables turned in the second quarter. Fremantle harnessed the wind, with Jordan Clark initiating a play that led to a swift coast-to-coast goal for Jye Amiss after a delivery from Hayden Young. Jackson, spending time in the midfield, was only thwarted by some uncharacteristic dropped marks and a missed shot, giving the Crows a reprieve. Despite this, Fremantle's midfield dominance was evident, winning clearances 11-3 for the quarter, with Young and Caleb Serong leading the charge and giving the Dockers an 11-point lead at halftime.
The third quarter began as a tight contest, but Adelaide found their rhythm, going on a four-goal run as Josh Rachele elevated his game. Brayden Cook further extended the Crows' lead to 12 points early in the fourth. But here's where the comeback magic happened... Fremantle rallied, inspired by captain for the day, Treacy, who kicked five unanswered goals with the breeze, putting the finishing touches on a formidable pre-season performance.
New Faces Making Their Mark:
Draftee Tobyn Murray has been a revelation at half-forward, effectively filling the void left by the injured Sam Switkopwski and making a strong case for Round 1 selection. His toughness, tireless running, and excellent pressure application have been key. Recruit Judd McVee showed flashes of brilliance across half-back with his kicking, but is still integrating into the Freo system. For the Crows, Charlie Edwards is pushing hard for a debut, impressing as an inside midfielder with 17 disposals and five clearances. Draftee Mitchell Marsh had a quiet day but did manage a long-range goal.
Round One Contention:
Mason Cox has firmly put himself in contention for the Dockers' season opener against Geelong with his stellar ruck performance. With Sean Darcy on managed minutes, Cox seized his opportunity, recording 30 hitouts and four clearances against Adelaide's Lachie McAndrew. His effectiveness allowed Luke Jackson to play extended periods in the midfield and forward.
Medical Room Updates:
Both teams experienced late withdrawals. Adelaide's Riley Thilthorpe was sidelined with back soreness but is expected to be fine for Round 1. Fremantle's Karl Worner was out with knee soreness. Jye Amiss briefly left the field with an ankle concern in the first quarter but returned and made an impact. Notable absentees for Fremantle included captain Alex Pearce (calf awareness), Brennan Cox (calf), and Luke Ryan, suggesting their backline will be significantly bolstered for Round 1.
Fantasy Watch - The Ruck Debate Heats Up!
The off-season rule changes have put a spotlight on ruckmen in AFL Fantasy, and Saturday's game offered a fascinating duel. Luke Jackson ($995,000) is a popular pick, and his performance (91 points) while playing various roles, even when Cox was in the ruck, highlights his potential. The wildcard remains Sean Darcy's return. For Adelaide, Lachlan McAndrew ($286,000) is emerging as a strong option, outperforming Reilly O'Brien with 81 points in just 69% game time, making him a compelling choice for many to free up cash. Murphy Reid ($581,000) was a standout for Fremantle, scoring 104 points with his 30 disposals in an expanded midfield role. For the Crows, Josh Rachele ($655,000) was a consistent performer, hitting the scoreboard with 18 disposals, five marks, six tackles, and a goal for 95 Fantasy points.
The final scores:
FREMANTLE: 3.1 6.7 7.10 12.12 (84)
ADELAIDE: 4.4 4.8 8.10 9.14 (68)
Goals:
Fremantle: Treacy 5, Amiss, Bolton, Clark, Frederick, Jackson, Murray, Voss
Adelaide: Pedlar 3, Cook, Dawson, Fogarty, Keays, Marsh, Rachele
Best Players:
Fremantle: Reid, Treacy, Jackson, Young, Serong, Clark, Cox
Adelaide: Pedlar, Rachele, Milera, Dawson, Laird, Worrell
Injuries:
Fremantle: Nil
Adelaide: Nil
Crowd: TBC at Rushton Park
What did you think of the midfield battle? Were you surprised by any of the performances? Let us know in the comments below!
