Club News: Focus Shifts to Crucial Geelong Match
Fremantle’s senior coach, Justin Longmuir, has indicated that the team has learned from their narrow defeat to Essendon and is now concentrating on their crucial upcoming game against Geelong in Round 22.
Following the close loss to Essendon, which saw them overcome Fremantle in the final quarter to secure a one-point win, Longmuir noted that while the team reviewed the entire match, their focus is firmly on the future. He acknowledged that the game did not align with their desired style of play.
Longmuir highlighted that Fremantle’s best performance comes when they remain proactive rather than reactive. He stressed that their success depends on playing their own game and working cohesively in all aspects, including defense, offense, and stoppages. With a six-day break before the next match, Longmuir expressed confidence that the players are already focused on the upcoming clash with Geelong.
The last encounter between Fremantle and Geelong at Optus Stadium was in late May 2023. Longmuir noted that Geelong is known for their unpredictable tactics, which presents a challenge. He emphasized the need for Fremantle to counter Geelong’s strategies while maintaining their own style of play.
There are also concerns regarding the availability of key forward Josh Treacy, who suffered a heavy collision during the weekend’s game. While Longmuir believes Treacy’s injury is not severe, further medical assessments are needed before determining his participation in Saturday’s game. Treacy, who has scored 45 goals this season and is tied for fifth place in the Coleman Medal race, could be a crucial asset for the team.
Currently, Fremantle is positioned sixth on the AFL ladder, trailing by just four points behind second-placed Brisbane and holding a four-point lead over ninth-placed Essendon.
