It is not often a good story can come out of a serious injury but Alex Pearce is the exception.
 
Pearce’s inclusion in the side after All Australian defender Michael Johnson was sidelined with a long-term hamstring injury in Round 10 has been a revelation.
 
The key defender has slotted seamlessly into the back six and again was a crucial pillar in Saturday’s 42-point win over Carlton at Domain Stadium.

Unblocking the middle
 
Pearce fought tirelessly to reach contests, and along with fellow defenders Luke McPharlin and Garrick Ibbotson, spoiled a number of Carlton’s forward thrusts.

“I’ve found it challenging but I'm enjoying it at the same time,” he said.
 
“All the boys back there help me out a lot and that makes it a fair bit easier.
 
“I’m just loving playing with all the boys.”

Freo bounces back against the Blues
 
The Tasmanian product has played seven games and said he felt more like he belonged in the AFL with each game.
 
“I’m feeling more confident each week, I’m feeling like I’m part of the group,” he said.
 
“For me it’s about consistent improvement and getting better week in, week out.”