Fremantle's Dockers have etched their names in the history books, not just as a force to be reckoned with in the AFL, but as a team that has broken through barriers and defied expectations. Their 13-game winning streak, which culminated in a thrilling 9-point victory over Geelong, is more than just a string of victories; it's a testament to their resilience, tactical prowess, and the sheer determination of their players. In my opinion, this is a team that has truly found its stride, and their journey to the premiership is one that promises to be both captivating and transformative for the sport.
What makes this particular victory so remarkable is the way the Dockers turned the tide after falling 28 points behind in the second quarter. It was a moment that could have broken them, but instead, it served as a catalyst for their comeback. The team's ability to overcome a collective case of the yips, a term often used to describe a sudden loss of form or confidence, is a testament to their mental fortitude and the leadership of key players like Andrew Brayshaw and Luke Jackson. Brayshaw, in particular, was a beacon of courage and leadership, winning 16 disposals in the critical third quarter and finishing with a game-high 35 disposals. His performance was a microcosm of the team's resilience and determination to not just win, but to win in style.
The Dockers' win was not just about overcoming adversity; it was also about the strategic brilliance of their coaches and the tactical execution of their players. The decision to let their midfield stars go head-to-head in the opening quarter was a bold move that paid dividends. The match-ups between Caleb Serong and Patrick Dangerfield, and Max Holmes on Hayden Young and Brayshaw, were brilliant and showcased the depth of talent on both sides. The Dockers' ability to control centre ball ups and win the inside 50s (54-44) was a key factor in their victory, as was their pressure game and aerial ascendency.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this game was the performance of Shai Bolton, who won the Mark of the Year award in 2021 as a Richmond star. His thrilling grab on the wing during the second quarter, where he flew over defender Jake Kolodjashnij and teammate Pat Voss, was a moment that captured the essence of the game. Bolton's joy and smile after the second grab, as a record non-Derby home-and-away crowd went wild at Optus Stadium, was a reminder of the passion and excitement that the AFL brings to fans. It was a moment that highlighted the human side of the sport, and the way in which players can inspire and captivate audiences.
The Dockers' 13-game winning streak is not just a record; it's a benchmark for consecutive wins for a WA-based AFL team. It sets a new standard for consistency and excellence, and it raises the bar for what is possible in the AFL. The team's ability to break records and end hoodoos in a brilliant 2026 is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the belief that they can achieve greatness. As they continue to break records and set new benchmarks, the question on everyone's mind is whether they can maintain this momentum and go on to win the premiership.
In my opinion, the Dockers' journey to the premiership is a story that promises to be both captivating and transformative for the sport. Their ability to overcome adversity, their tactical brilliance, and the sheer determination of their players make them a force to be reckoned with. As they continue to break records and set new benchmarks, the AFL world will be watching with bated breath, eager to see what this team can achieve next. The future looks bright for the Dockers, and the AFL community can only hope that their winning streak continues, inspiring a new generation of players and fans alike.
