Freo survives late Dogs surge despite key injury blow
Fremantle has held on for dear life to claim four vital points against the Western Bulldogs on Sunday night.
Going into the final quarter, the Dockers only had 11 interchange rotations remaining for the game, and were down a player on the bench with Luke Jackson (hamstring) ruled out and Corey Wagner (calf) subbed out.
The Dogs gave it everything to overrun a tired Freo side, but kicked 2.3 for the term and failed to capitalise on territory control, allowing the home side to escape with a 15.7. (97) to 12.9. (81) victory.
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Fremantle was held goalless for the vast majority of the fourth term, but first-year midfielder Murphy Reid bobbed up in the dying seconds to kick the match-winner.
Shai Bolton celebrates a goal against the Bulldogs. AFL Photos via Getty Images
Jackson's hammy will sour the performance however, though the club is yet to confirm the extent of the injury. They will be hoping Sean Darcy is available to return from his delayed start to the season and provide some backup.
The Dogs had their own injury issue, with Laitham Vandermeer subbed out with a sore knee.
Midfielder Caleb Serong once again dominated, finding 38 disposals and winning 15 clearances.
For the Dogs, key forward Sam Darcy continues to emerge as a superstar, booting five goals and finding 21 disposals.
Both teams now head to South Australia for Gather Round, with Fremantle facing Richmond and the Bulldogs taking on Brisbane.
