Perth’s first Test match in three years has attracted thin crowds and been overshadowed by the Socceroos’ World Cup campaign.
Steve Smith is chasing history very few have ever been able to contemplate;Marnus Labuschagne,five years the younger,is eagerly chasing Smith.
Australia’s Test summer will begin in the midst of 35-degree heat in Western Australia on Wednesday,making for a tough first day for whomever bowls first.
Rory Lobb has barely rucked since hurting his right shoulder in the round 18 loss to Sydney,but will reprise his dual forward-ruck role in Saturday night’s elimination final.
The opening of Fremantle’s flag window has by no means been an overnight feat,with the Dockers not tasting finals action since falling off the cliff at the end of 2015.
There could be more quality league content leaving Sydney,with Perth making a play to host a double-header next year.
West Coast defender Tom Barrass has continued his stunning form by holding Rory Lobb goalless in Fremantle’s western derby win.
Fremantle are relieved they don’t have to face Josh Kennedy this weekend but are still wary of a West Coast unit trying to spoil their top-four hopes.
Optus Stadium’s surface took a pounding last week after two exhibition soccer matches involving EPL clubs and an AFL game were played in the space of three days.
St Kilda coach Brett Ratten has expressed concern over the Optus Stadium turf,saying the venue should think twice before attempting to cram in too many sporting events.
With defender Alex Pearce still sidelined by a calf injury,Griffin Logue and Buddy Franklin are expected to lock horns in Saturday night’s clash at Optus Stadium.