Fremantle Dockers coach Justin Longmuir has declared his team the underdogs ahead of their upcoming AFL preliminary final against the Sydney Swans, despite Sydney's significant player losses. (nz.news.yahoo.com)
The Dockers secured their spot in the preliminary final with a 14-point victory over Geelong at Optus Stadium. The match saw Fremantle initially lead by 31 points, only for Geelong to surge ahead late in the third quarter. However, a standout performance from ruckman Luke Jackson, who contributed two goals and a goal assist, propelled the Dockers to an 18.12 (120) to 16.10 (106) win. (theqldr.com.au)
Sydney's lineup has been severely impacted by the season-ending suspensions of key players Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon, and Riley Bice, following an alleged sexual assault investigation. Additionally, captain Callum Mills is sidelined due to an ACL injury. (thewest.com.au)
Despite these setbacks for the Swans, Longmuir maintains that Fremantle will approach the match as the underdogs, emphasizing the need for his team to focus on their own performance and preparation.
In team news, Fremantle defender Brennan Cox is working towards a return from a calf injury. While his availability for the preliminary final remains uncertain, Longmuir highlighted the importance of team balance and the strong performances of current players in determining the final lineup. (zerohanger.com)
The preliminary final is set to take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground, with the winner advancing to the AFL Grand Final.