Fremantle is looking to extend its winning streak to four games as they face off against the Melbourne Demons at the MCG on April 19, 2025. The Dockers have turned their season around with three consecutive victories, while the Demons aim to break their winless start to 2025, currently sitting at 0-5.
As the match kicked off, Fremantle made a promising start with Andrew Brayshaw scoring the first goal, showcasing their intent to dominate early. However, the Demons quickly responded, scoring the next three goals in a fast-paced opening that had fans on the edge of their seats. The atmosphere at the MCG was electric, with both teams eager to make their mark.
In a late change for Fremantle, defender Heath Chapman was ruled out due to illness, prompting veteran James Aish to step in. Chapman had been a consistent performer for the Dockers, averaging 14.2 disposals per game. Meanwhile, Oscar McDonald, making his first appearance in over a year, scored a crucial goal for Fremantle, highlighting his return to the game.
At halftime, the Demons held a commanding lead, scoring 12 goals and equaling their season's best score. Melbourne led 74-53, with Kysaiah Pickett shining brightly, having netted four goals and gaining 313 meters. Pickett's performance was a significant factor in Melbourne's resurgence, as they desperately sought to end their losing streak.
Despite Fremantle's strong start, the Dockers struggled to maintain momentum, especially in defense. The Demons exploited gaps in Fremantle's backline, with Pickett and Harrison Petty combining for several goals. Petty, who stepped up in the absence of dropped forwards Bayley Fritsch and Jacob van Rooyen, added three goals to his tally, proving to be a valuable asset in the forward line.
As the second half commenced, Fremantle needed to rally and regain control of the match. The Dockers managed to score early in the third quarter through Jaeger O'Meara, who connected with McDonald for another vital goal. However, Melbourne quickly responded, with Pickett continuing to torment the Dockers' defense.
Throughout the match, Fremantle's midfield struggled to match Melbourne's intensity, particularly in clearances, where they were evenly matched at 21 each. Jack Viney stood out for the Demons, leading the charge with four clearances and providing crucial support to his teammates.
Fremantle's coach Justin Longmuir expressed the need for his team to step up their defensive efforts, stating, "We need to tighten up our defense if we want to stay in this game. The Demons are finding too much space, and we can't afford to let them capitalize on that." Longmuir's comments highlighted the urgency for the Dockers to regroup and refocus as they continued to trail.
With the temperature soaring to 28 degrees, fatigue began to set in for both teams. The match showcased a thrilling display of skill and athleticism, with players from both sides pushing their limits. Shai Bolton emerged as a standout for Fremantle, showcasing his ability inside 50, but he needed more support from his fellow midfielders to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
As the third quarter progressed, Melbourne continued to apply pressure, with Pickett scoring another goal, bringing his tally to five. The Demons' ability to maintain their scoring rate was a stark contrast to Fremantle's inconsistency, as they struggled to convert their chances.
Fremantle's leadership was on display when Josh Treacy insisted that Jye Amiss take a crucial free kick inside 50. Amiss, who had been struggling for form, converted the set shot, showcasing Treacy's selflessness and commitment to the team's success. However, despite moments of brilliance, Fremantle's defense continued to falter under Melbourne's relentless attack.
As the final quarter approached, Fremantle found themselves in a precarious position, needing a significant turnaround to salvage the match. With Melbourne leading by a substantial margin, the Dockers faced an uphill battle. Longmuir's men needed to dig deep, but the Demons were relentless, with Kade Chandler and Christian Petracca adding to the scoreboard.
In the closing stages, Fremantle managed to score a couple of consolation goals, but it was clear that the Demons had regained their mojo. As the final siren sounded, Melbourne celebrated a much-needed victory, while Fremantle was left to ponder their defensive lapses and missed opportunities.
This match served as a turning point for Melbourne, who finally broke their winless streak, while Fremantle will need to regroup and address their defensive issues ahead of their next encounter. With the season still young, both teams have much to play for as they look to solidify their positions in the league.
As the dust settles on this thrilling contest, the AFL landscape shifts once again, with Melbourne finally getting their first win of the season and Fremantle left to rethink their strategy moving forward.
