In a disheartening display of missed opportunities, the Fremantle Dockers suffered a narrow three-point defeat against the Sydney Swans at Optus Stadium on March 23, 2025. The loss marks the Dockers' sixth straight defeat, adding to the mounting pressure on the team's performance as they continue to struggle to close out games.
Fremantle led for a significant portion of the match, hinting at a potential turning point for their season, but ultimately faltered in the final moments. Coach Justin Longmuir expressed his disappointment regarding his players' failure to adhere to the game plan during the decisive stages. “It was a disappointing finish, clearly,” Longmuir remarked to 7NEWS, adding that the players are not panicking but rather failing to adapt to the requirements of late-game situations. “They probably just aren't adjusting to what the game needs at certain times.”
The alarming trend for Fremantle continues, as they have only managed to score a mere seven points in the final stages of matches over their last five outings while conceding a troubling 76 points to their opponents. Longmuir’s commentary highlights the ongoing concern for the Dockers as they try to gain momentum to kickstart their season.
As they prepare to face their arch-rivals, the West Coast Eagles, in the upcoming derby, long-time supporters and analysts alike are questioning the team's ability to rise to the challenge. Longmuir knows the importance of this match not only for points but also for team confidence. “We’ll need to bring our best footy,” he stated, referring to the Eagles’ recent performance against Brisbane. “Their pressure and ability to hunt the ball was really strong.”
Fans' frustrations echoed in the stands during the match against the Swans, with many lamenting the squandered chances that could have shifted the game in their favor. One passionate supporter expressed, “False hope. And then I just get let down.” Another fan added, “Just a lot of wasted opportunities. Yet again.” The team’s inability to capitalize on their strong starts has become a sour point, evident in their consistent leads followed by late-game collapses.
Highlighting individual performances, Josh Treacy shone brightly in the forward line, delivering a masterclass. However, it was painfully clear that his efforts were not enough to uplift the team. In contrast, Patrick Voss has faced criticism for his decisions during the game. Fans view Voss as eager but prone to costly errors when pushed to make quick decisions in high-pressure scenarios. This reputation creates uncertainty regarding his role within the team moving forward.
In addition to performance woes, changing the team's off-field dynamics hasn't done any favors either. A curious decision to play Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" after each goal was met with disapproval from the crowd. “We didn’t really kick any goals,” a fan cynically remarked, referencing the lack of output from the match as a whole. Despite a positive social media presence from the club, such unconventional ideas have left fans yearning for substance over style.
Longmuir now seeks to reintegrate key players into the squad who could positively influence the team's dynamics. Star duo Hayden Young and Sean Darcy are expected to return to the field in the upcoming weeks, potentially offering a much-needed boost. However, fans have mixed feelings as Darcy likely requires time in the WAFL to regain match fitness.
Meanwhile, the Swans celebrated their hard-fought victory, which serves as a potential springboard for better performances moving forward. Forward Hayden McLean, in his first game back, contributed significantly with two goals and noted, “These are the wins that really get the ball rolling.” McLean's sentiments reflect the sense of optimism within the Swans' camp as they prepare for the bye week.
McLean expressed excitement over the close game, especially as it marked coach Dean Cox’s first win in Perth. “To get a win over here in his hometown, there’s nothing better,” he remarked, acknowledging the camaraderie shared among team members as they celebrated Cox’s achievement together.
With the Dockers’ current form in question, their fate rests on their ability to learn from past mistakes and adapt for the upcoming derby against West Coast. Supporters are hoping for a turnaround in fortunes, as cries for a much-needed victory grow stronger with every disappointing performance.
The next few matches could very well dictate the direction of the remainder of Fremantle's season. Will they rise up to the challenge or continue to stumble in a cycle of defeat? Fans are left asking whether this crucial derby will become a turning point that reignites their hopes.
As the Dockers re-evaluate and strategize for the coming challenges, Longmuir's leadership will be put to the test. The clock is ticking for the underperforming team to show their true potential and make a real push for redemption in the vibrant yet unforgiving landscape of Australian rules football.
