Finishing mid-table in 2021, the Fremantle Dockers don’t look too far off from getting back to their very best after some lacklustre performances in the previous years.
Inconsistent performances against weaker teams, as well as impressive victories over arguably stronger teams, led to mixed feelings amongst the Freo faithful over how the team performed.
Coming into the 2022 season, Justin Longmuir's side look stronger than ever on paper. It's now about putting everything into action and performing when it matters most.
With many players on the brink of returning from injury, things are looking up for the Dockers. And with a lot of players starting to find themselves, flourishing in their current roles, as well as the return of captain Nat Fyfe, Fremantle fans have a lot to be excited about going into the upcoming season.
Off-Season Moves
Ins: Jye Amiss, Neil Erasmus, Matthew Johnson, Eric Benning, Will Brodie [Gold Cost], Jordan Clark [Geelong]
Outs: Brett Bewley [delisted], Adam Cerra [Carlton], Reece Conca [delisted], Taylin Dunman [delisted], Stefan Giro [delisted], Stephen Hill [retired], Leno Thomas [delisted], Luke Valentine [retired], Tobe Watson [delisted]
Weaknesses
Forward line
Fremantle’s forward-line is a little hit and miss. The players have the potential to put up excellent goal-scoring numbers, but injuries and inconstant performances leave a big hole that has been present since Jesse Hogan’s departure.
Although full-forward Matt Taberner has improved and is putting up much better statistics, he can’t do all the work on his own.
Lachie Schultz and Former Giant Rory Lobb offer more potential options going forward, but struggles with injury and inconsistent performances from both players leave a lot of questions in terms of their availability, and how they will perform the times they are actually fit enough to get on the field.
Sam Sturt, Travis Colyer and Mitch Crowden provide a decent supporting cast but still don’t stand out as players who can take Fremantle to the next level.
Michael Walters has also left a lot to be desired and is playing far from his best. Averaging only 14 disposals and only kicking more than two goals on one occasion the entire season, Walters is one player that needs to step up his game if Freo seriously considers themselves a top-eight team.
