Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Kane Cornes warns Fremantle over Luke Jackson role as Sean Darcy return nears, with the AFL analyst urging the Dockers not to disrupt the star ruckman’s outstanding form ahead of the finals race. The discussion follows Fremantle’s nine point win over Geelong at Optus Stadium, where Jackson delivered one of the best performances of his career and strengthened his case as one of the competition’s most influential players.
The Dockers recorded their 13th consecutive victory against the Cats, continuing a remarkable run that has elevated them into premiership contention. However, the looming return of Sean Darcy has created a selection dilemma for coach Justin Longmuir.
Jackson producing career best football
Luke Jackson was dominant against Geelong, producing a complete performance that highlighted his growing importance to Fremantle's premiership hopes.
The 24 year old collected 28 disposals, kicked three goals, laid nine tackles, recorded 25 hit outs and added six clearances in a best on ground display.
His impact around stoppages and ability to influence contests across the ground have made him one of the AFL's most valuable players this season.
Jackson is widely expected to receive maximum Brownlow Medal votes for his efforts against the Cats after leading the Dockers to another significant victory.
Cornes urges caution over ruck structure
Kane Cornes believes Fremantle must be careful not to reduce Jackson’s ruck responsibilities when Sean Darcy returns from injury.
According to Cornes, Jackson is currently performing as the best specialist ruckman in the AFL and should remain the primary option in that role throughout the remainder of the season.
He argued that previous partnerships with Darcy have occasionally reduced Jackson's influence around stoppages, something Fremantle should avoid while he is in peak form.
Cornes suggested the club's priority should be maintaining the momentum generated by Jackson’s recent performances rather than altering a successful formula.
Sean Darcy building fitness
Darcy remains in the WAFL as he continues his recovery from another injury setback.
The Doig Medal winner is considered a crucial part of Fremantle’s long term plans, but the club has adopted a patient approach as he works toward full fitness.
His eventual return presents a significant selection challenge, particularly given Jackson’s dominance in the lead ruck role.
At the same time, recruit Mason Cox has struggled to cement a permanent position in the senior side during Darcy’s absence.
That situation has increased speculation over how Fremantle will structure its tall stocks during the second half of the season.
Forward role may be key
Cornes believes Darcy may need to improve his effectiveness as a forward if he is to secure a place in Fremantle’s strongest lineup.
The analyst noted that any secondary role alongside Jackson would require Darcy to compete consistently in attack and provide greater scoreboard impact than he has previously delivered.
With Jackson expected to continue spending the majority of game time in the ruck, Darcy’s flexibility could become a decisive factor in selection decisions.
The issue presents what Cornes described as a positive problem for Fremantle, although one that requires careful management from Longmuir and his coaching staff.
Brayshaw praised after Geelong victory
While Jackson attracted most of the attention, Cornes also highlighted the influence of vice captain Andy Brayshaw in the win over Geelong.
Brayshaw was instrumental during the third quarter, collecting 16 disposals as Fremantle seized control of the contest.
Cornes said the midfielder stood out when the match was at its most important stage and credited his defensive work, tackling pressure and decision making.
Earlier in the season there were concerns that Brayshaw's midfield role had been diminished due to the emergence of teammates including Shai Bolton and Murphy Reid.
However, Cornes believes the experienced midfielder has answered those concerns and remains a central figure in Fremantle’s engine room.
Dockers continue premiership push
Fremantle’s victory over Geelong further strengthened its position among the AFL’s leading premiership contenders.
The return of Caleb Serong alongside the continued excellence of Jackson and Brayshaw has helped create one of the league’s strongest midfield groups.
As the finals approach, attention will now turn to how the Dockers manage Darcy’s return while preserving the form that has underpinned their impressive winning streak.