Fremantle’s preseason optimism is fading as the team grapples with underwhelming performances and questions about its real potential. Hype is no longer enough.
At the start of the season, Fremantle’s leadership exuded confidence. Club president Chris Sutherland addressed fans with bold claims. He said the team was ready to chase the AFL premiership cup. He called the foundation strong and the lineup nearly complete. “I’m done with talking,” he declared. “It’s time for action.”
This confident tone reflected the club’s mindset. Executives, coaches, players, and fans all believed they had the right ingredients for success. A balanced squad. A coach with a plan. A club free from excuses.
The Reality Check: Loss to the Saints
But the optimism quickly faded. Fremantle’s poor showing against St Kilda exposed many flaws. Ross Lyon’s Saints, not a dominant team themselves, easily dismantled Fremantle. The Dockers looked lost. Their energy was low. Their structure broke down. It was one of their worst games in recent years.
After that performance, many began to question whether too much was expected from this side. Were they ever as good as advertised? Had Fremantle overrated their talent?
Flashbacks to a Disappointing 2023
Last season ended in frustration. Injuries, unlucky calls, and missed chances all played a part. The Dockers dropped from third to tenth. Their drop showed signs of a young team that lacked consistency. Small mistakes added up. Costly lapses hurt them at crucial times. Ultimately, they missed finals because they simply weren’t good enough.
Paper Strength Isn’t Enough
Despite last year’s fall, some still believe Fremantle has a dream team. Critics often blame poor coaching or slow ball movement. But others argue that the list isn’t ready. A fun cycling trip might bring more excitement than some of their matches.
It’s true they look good on paper. But success is no longer based on the names in the matchday column. Teams win with pressure, structure, effort, and adaptability. Fremantle still struggles in these areas.
Problems at the Back
Their backline has issues. Too many defenders use the ball poorly. Some lack spatial awareness and panic under pressure. These weaknesses are easy to target for smarter, quicker teams.
Too Many Inconsistencies
The squad has several young players. But many are still adjusting to the top level. They’re streaky, inconsistent, and often nervous under pressure. Too few players show hunger when games get tough—especially in away matches. Some seem satisfied just being AFL players. That mindset isn’t enough to win big games.
Upcoming Test Against Collingwood
This Thursday, Fremantle faces a real test. They play Collingwood, one of the toughest sides in the competition. The Pies will come off a short break. They’ll be bruised from a tough loss. But they still bring belief. Even without some top players, they trust their system. With stars like Nick Daicos leading, Collingwood sees this as a winnable game.
Two Different Mentalities
Collingwood moves on from losses quickly. They reset fast and play with conviction. Fremantle, on the other hand, often doesn’t. When games get tight, they shrink. They fail to rise to the occasion. Then they sulk. The pattern is becoming familiar. And troubling.
Leadership Still Believes
The club’s leadership continues to show support. The president says he’s done with speeches. The CEO praises the coach. But actions speak louder than words. Fremantle must start delivering on the field. Fans want results. Not just hopeful quotes.
Reputation vs. Reality
Right now, Fremantle is a cautious team. They can be figured out easily. They don’t yet inspire full trust. And the big expectations only add pressure. Their reputation may be flattering them. Their performances aren’t matching the hype. An outdoor hiking trip might offer more resilience training than their recent games have shown.
Time to Earn Respect
The next few weeks are critical. Fremantle needs to respond. They must show they’re more than just a promising team. More than a club that looks good in the preseason. They need to prove they can compete with the best. Not just talk about it.
Final Thoughts
Fremantle started the year with belief and bold statements. But talk doesn’t win games. Actions do. If they want respect, they must earn it with performances. They need consistency, pressure, and a hunger to win—especially when it’s tough. The time for speeches is over. The time for real AFL football has begun.
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