Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Fremantle Dockers Wharfie Time played a part in Walyalup’s stirring comeback against Hawthorn, with coach Justin Longmuir praising the Optus Stadium feature after his side’s eighth straight win.
The Dockers surged late in the fourth quarter after Michael Frederick cut the margin to four points, with Wharfie Time activated before the home side kicked three goals in six minutes.
The win came during another big Australian Football League week that also includes Michael Voss’ Carlton exit after a brutal coaching call, while official fixtures and results are available on the Australian Football League website.
Longmuir Praises Crowd Spark
Longmuir said he is still trying to work out who controls the Wharfie Time button.
“It’s a mystery to me who chooses it, I’m trying to get to the bottom of it” he told 7News.
“But they seem to time it really well, when the momentum has started but hasn’t gone to it’s fullest.
“I know our players get a lot of energy off it, and I would imagine it would spook the opposition to some degree so it’s a great initiative by the club.”
Pearce Injury Opens Defensive Door
The only setback from the Hawthorn win was Alex Pearce’s knee injury, which will keep him out of this weekend’s clash with Essendon.
Fremantle confirmed a one-to-three-week timeline, leaving his availability for the round 12 match against Brisbane Lions at the Gabba uncertain.
“We’re happy it’s short-term, and he’s available next week, but at the most it would be three weeks, but fingers crossed it’s on the shorter end,” Longmuir said.
Oscar McDonald, Hugh Davies and Josh Draper are among the defensive options after strong form at Peel.
Darcy Nears Return
Sean Darcy has returned to some main-group work as he recovers from a calf injury.
The ruckman has not played since round five, but Longmuir said he is tracking well and could return within one to three weeks.
