Dockers wilt against masterful Hawthorn in qualifying final
So good for so long this year, Fremantle chose an inopportune time to put in — by some distance — their worst shift of the season, going down by 32 points to a brilliant Hawthorn.
The Fremantle Dockers were comprehensively defeated by the Hawthorn Hawks in their qualifying final at Perth Stadium on Thursday night. The Hawks dominated the match, holding Fremantle to a season-low of 40 points and forcing numerous turnovers that prevented the Dockers from establishing their usual running game. The victory gave Hawthorn a home preliminary final and moved them closer to their 14th premiership.
Fremantle's coach, Justin Longmuir, defended his selection of Brandon Walker, who was ruled out of the game due to an ankle injury, but his absence proved decisive as Hawthorn kicked a goal late in the third quarter and then produced a spectacular mark to extend the lead. Fremantle, who had been unbeaten at home all year, struggled to mount a comeback, with their forward line failing to make an impact.
Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell praised his team's relentless pressure and credited midfielder Will Day for his outstanding performance in his first final.
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