Fremantle Assistant Coach Jaymie Graham Confident Dockers' Style Suits Geelong's Narrow Ground
Fremantle Dockers assistant coach Jaymie Graham has expressed confidence that the team's playing style is well-suited to the unique dimensions of Geelong's GMHBA Stadium as they prepare for their AFL season opener on Saturday. The Cats' home ground, measuring 170 meters in length and 115 meters in width, is notably narrower and longer than other venues like Optus Stadium, which spans 165 meters by 130 meters.
Ground Shape Plays to Fremantle's Strengths
Graham emphasized that Fremantle's focus on contest and team defense aligns with the challenges posed by the skinny ground. "We really value our contest in and team D, and that's a strength of Geelong as well," he said. "We feel that on a ground like this, it plays into our strengths, the way we compete, but also the way we defend the ground." This comes despite Fremantle's 78-point loss at GMHBA Stadium in round one last season, where they were outtackled by 30 and conceded 88 points from turnovers.
Learning from Past Experiences
The Dockers have reflected on last season's humbling defeat but are focusing on the present. "There were definitely some learnings out of it," Graham noted, adding that the squad is concentrating on staying in the moment and looking forward to the upcoming game. He acknowledged Geelong as a formidable opponent at home, stating, "Clearly, we know Geelong are a huge challenge down here and they play the ground really well." The team's energy has been positive, with players eager to transition from practice matches to competitive play.
Forward Line Development and Tactical Adjustments
Graham highlighted the maturation of Fremantle's forward trio—Josh Treacy, Patrick Voss, and Jye Amiss—who have spent another season and pre-season together. "Individually, they're maturing. They've worked really hard on their connection and chemistry as a group," he said. Their aerial power, movement, and ground-level pressure are seen as key threats. Additionally, the Dockers have embraced high-rotation forward lines, a trend in the AFL, with players like Caleb Serong and Andrew Brayshaw alternating between half-forward and midfield roles.
"We've seen over the pre-season some of the forwards spending time on the ball and some of the mids going forward as well," Graham explained. This dual-role strategy aims to create unpredictability for opponents, with Hayden Young, who has evolved from defense to midfield, now also featuring in attack. "He really embraces going forward," Graham said, noting Young's impact in the forward line.
Team Selection and Player Updates
Fremantle will be without Jaeger O'Meara due to a hamstring injury and Brennan Cox with a calf issue, while All-Australian defender Luke Ryan will play for Peel Thunder to regain form. Luke Jackson, Sean Darcy, and Mason Cox are part of the 26-man squad, with Darcy to be managed under the new five-player interchange rule. Geelong will see veteran Mark Blicavs leading the ruck, and Mitch Edwards, a product of Fremantle's Next Generation Academy, will make his AFL debut. Traveling emergencies for Fremantle include Bailey Banfield and Hugh Davies.
As the Dockers finalize preparations, Graham remains optimistic about their adaptability and readiness for the season ahead, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and strategic flexibility on the challenging Geelong ground.
