Fremantle Dockers Forward Line Hailed as AFL's Best by Kane Cornes
Leading AFL analyst Kane Cornes has boldly proclaimed that the Fremantle Dockers possess the competition's pre-eminent forward line heading into the 2026 season. In a recent statement on SEN radio, Cornes expressed his confidence in the Dockers' attacking unit, despite strong competition from other top clubs.
Comparing the Competition's Top Forward Lines
Brisbane, the reigning premiers, have bolstered their forward set-up with the addition of Oscar Allen, making them a formidable force. Meanwhile, fellow grand finalists Geelong feature a Coleman medallist and a Brownlow medallist in their attacking lineup, adding star power to their offensive capabilities. The Western Bulldogs, who were the highest-scoring team last season, rely on the dynamic duo of Sam Darcy and Aaron Naughton to lead their charge.
However, Cornes argues that Fremantle's forward mix surpasses all others. "I don't know if there's a better forward line in the AFL," he said. "Murphy Reid, Jye Amiss, Sam Switkowski, Patrick Voss, Josh Treacy, Shai Bolton with a mix of Luke Jackson and 'Fast Freddie' Michael Frederick. Is there a better mix than that? I think it's the best three keys you can have in Amiss, Treacy and Voss. Amiss kicks a lot of goals, he's a young key forward. I can't see a better forward mix."
Statistical Backing for Fremantle's Forward Prowess
While the Dockers finished ninth in overall scoring last season, they were one of only two sides, along with eventual premier Brisbane, to have seven players who booted 20 goals or more. This depth in scoring ability is a key factor in Cornes' assessment. The key-position trio of Josh Treacy (44 goals), Patrick Voss (37 goals), and Jye Amiss (32 goals) led the way, with significant contributions from Michael Frederick (30 goals), Shai Bolton (28 goals), Murphy Reid (25 goals), and Luke Jackson (20 goals).
Coach's Perspective on Forward Line Development
Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir has also expressed optimism about the forward line's progress. Speaking after the Dockers' practice match win over West Coast last weekend, Longmuir highlighted the growing cohesion among the tall forwards. "The cohesion and understanding of when each other are going to lead and what that creates for the next player is growing," he said. "The direction they are giving the midfielders is growing as well in terms of how they want the ball kicked to them. That's what we saw out there on Saturday."
This strong pre-season performance and the coach's positive feedback further support Cornes' claim that Fremantle's forward line is set to be a dominant force in the upcoming AFL season.
