As Fremantle rides the wave of anticipation, fans find themselves grappling with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Should they book travel arrangements for the finals, or remain cautious? The recent victory against a formidable opponent has stirred debate among supporters about whether this marks a turning point or simply another win in a long season. With echoes of past disappointments still fresh, the question looms: will they truly believe in their chances of success when momentum is firmly on their side?
Recent AFL history reveals a landscape shaped by the introduction of new teams and a changing schedule. However, examining the last 25 years offers insights into how clubs in similar positions to Fremantle have performed. Since 2000, only seven teams have found themselves in as advantageous a spot as the Dockers at this juncture. Among these, three captured the championship, while another three fell short in the grand final. Notable runners-up included the 2009 Saints, who boasted an undefeated record at this stage, and the 2005 Eagles, ahead by three games.
The sole team to miss the grand final from this elite group was the 2015 Dockers, who had suffered only two losses after round 18. Unbeknownst to them, this squad’s opportunity for a premiership slipped away during a pivotal moment in the preliminary final against a strong Hawthorn team. In a crucial final quarter, Tendai Mzungu attempted a risky switch play with a 20-meter kick aimed at Tommy Sheridan, who was under pressure from the ever-dangerous Cyril Rioli. Sheridan’s failure to secure the mark allowed Rioli to capitalize, scoring a 50-meter goal that sealed the fate of the Dockers.
At that moment, Dockers coach Ross Lyon was visibly defeated, his head in his hands as the game, season, and possibly the entire era crumbled. The Hawks went on to claim their third consecutive premiership. In the following years, Lyon’s coaching style wore down his players and ultimately led to his departure from the club. His exit was as stark as his entry; he held a farewell press conference in a local park and later pursued further education in behavioral economics at Harvard.
Matthew Pavlich, the captain during that fateful 2015 match, now oversees the Sydney Swans after a stint in media, which included commentary at the Paris Olympics. Watching the recent top-of-the-table contest, he might have reflected on how many goals he could have scored with the current Dockers midfield supporting him. Although the Swans showcased impressive play, the Dockers struggled with accuracy, leading to frustrations that even the usually composed Longmuir couldn’t hide.
Yet, within just 30 seconds of the game against the Swans, the Dockers demonstrated their true capabilities, solidifying their status as premiership contenders. There’s a sense of anticipation surrounding the potential for celebratory moments, with uncertainty about who will initiate the jubilation. Whether it’s the CEO, the marketing manager, or a former player, the timing of their decisions will be crucial. They have shown commendable restraint, a rarity in the world of sports marketing.
The Dockers’ offensive display alleviated the need for external encouragement. This season’s team showcases a stark contrast to those from Lyon’s years. While they hold certain weaknesses, such as slow starts and defensive vulnerabilities, they possess the ability to quickly ramp up their scoring, proving they can recover from difficult situations. As they prepare for potential home finals or even a grand final, they can draw on multiple strong performances for inspiration.
With the longing for a breakthrough premiership and a local media landscape that often leans towards hyperbole, the presence of a grounded coach like Longmuir becomes invaluable. Unlike others who may seek the spotlight, Longmuir remains focused on the process. When asked about a match where his team failed to score in the first half yet surged to score over 100 points in the second, he emphasized, “It’s about process, right?” While ‘procedural’ may not be the first word that comes to mind when describing the Dockers’ journey this season, Longmuir’s steady demeanor offers a counterbalance to the excitement surrounding this remarkable team.
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