Fremantle Dockers Secure Vital Win Against Hawthorn to Boost Finals Hopes

In a gripping encounter at Optus Stadium on July 12, 2025, the Fremantle Dockers staged a remarkable comeback against the Hawthorn Hawks, winning by 13 points and solidifying their position in the top eight of the Australian Football League (AFL). The match, which saw Fremantle trail by two goals at three-quarter time, showcased the tenacity and resolve of the Dockers as they scored four consecutive goals in the final quarter to clinch the victory, ending the game with a score of 12.5 (77) to 9.10 (64).

The game was characterized by its high stakes, with both teams fighting fiercely for a crucial win that could impact their finals aspirations. Fremantle's coach Justin Longmuir emphasized the significance of the match, noting that it represented one of the most important home-and-away games during his tenure. "Every game counts at this stage of the season, and the players showed tremendous character to come back from behind," Longmuir stated in the post-match conference.

Key players such as Josh Treacy, Pat Voss, and Sean Darcy delivered pivotal performances, each stepping up during the decisive moments of the match. Sam Switkowski, returning from injury, was instrumental, contributing three goals and exhibiting exceptional skill with eight score involvements. His performance highlighted a successful return, which was crucial for the Dockers in a game where they needed every ounce of talent to secure the win.

According to Andrew Brayshaw, who recorded 29 disposals and six clearances, the intensity of the match was reminiscent of finals football. "We knew we had to dig deep, especially being behind in the last quarter. The crowd really lifted us, and we just had to respond," Brayshaw commented.

On the other side, Hawthorn's efforts were commendable as they sought to maintain their winning streak and secure a place in the top four. Calsher Dear, who also marked his return to the field, scored three goals and was a standout performer for the Hawks. Despite their loss, Hawthorn’s coach Sam Mitchell praised his team's resilience and competitive spirit, stating, "We played well but simply couldn't capitalize on our chances in the final stages."

The match statistics reveal the closely contested nature of the game, with Fremantle managing 77 disposals and creating 50 inside 50 opportunities compared to Hawthorn's 64 disposals and 45 inside 50 entries. The Dockers' ability to convert their opportunities in the final quarter ultimately proved decisive.

Historically, this victory marks the fifth consecutive win for Fremantle over Hawthorn at Optus Stadium, reinforcing a strong home-ground advantage. The Dockers’ recent form, winning six of their last seven matches, positions them favorably as they aim for a successful finals campaign.

Looking ahead, both teams will need to reassess their strategies as the AFL season progresses. Fremantle's focus will shift towards maintaining momentum and securing a playoff berth, while Hawthorn will seek to regroup and refocus on their upcoming fixtures to solidify their standing in the league.

As the season approaches its climax, the implications of this match extend beyond the immediate scoreboard, influencing team morale and strategic planning for the coming weeks. The Dockers' victory serves as a critical reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports, where perseverance and teamwork can lead to remarkable comebacks and unforeseen successes.