They then resisted a typical Geelong comeback,kicking two important goals in the final quarter,to hold on when the Cats kicked a goal to draw within three points with just 26 seconds remaining.
They did so without ruckman Sean Darcy,key forward Matt Taberner and dual Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe yet to play in 2022.
Fremantle’s youngsters Andrew Brayshaw and Caleb Serong were excellent in tight while Blake Acres controlled his wing and Jordan Clark impressed in his first game back in Geelong since he left after being starved of opportunities.
Geelong jumped Fremantle kicking the first three goals with Ty Stengle’s pressure and tackling causing trouble and Tom Hawkins’ strength allowing him to mark and goal twice.
The Cats looked good when they moved the ball through the corridor after a turnover with their smalls linking to push the ball inside a spacious 50.
However the Dockers stayed in touch as they made the most of their forward thrusts,cashing in on Geelong’s weakness in defence to score more often than not when they entered their forward 50. A defensive breakdown at a stoppage allowed Lachie Schultz to goal for the Dockers to keep the margin minimal at the first break.