Ahead of his 150th match, Paul Duffield has credited his senior coach Ross Lyon for improving his game.

The 29-year-old defender is arguably playing the most consistent football of his career in 2014 and is a fixture in Freo’s best 22.

But that hasn’t always been the case.

While Duffield has played at least 21 games in each season from 2009 to 2013, he has found himself dropped back to WAFL level to regain form on a couple of occasions.

So far in 2014, he has played every game and been among the best performers on a weekly basis.

“I think Ross has really helped me improve my football and keep striving to improve, I credit a lot to him,” Duffield said.

“He’s kept pushing me to improve and be better and grow, and an attitude to just keep trying to do that.

“I’m not young, I’m 29, but I still feel like I’m learning in the game and trying to get better each week.”

Duffield debuted in one of the most infamous games in club history – the round 5, 2006 ‘Sirengate’ match against St Kilda at Aurora Stadium.

Coincidentally, he will play his 150th AFL game against the Saints on Saturday and become eligible for life membership at Fremantle.

“It’s really special to me, to be honest,” Duffield said.

“I’ve been at Fremantle for a long time now and I’ve played a lot of WAFL football as well.

“I wasn’t always sure that my career was going to take off at AFL level.

“To reach 150 and join some of the previous life members, who are legends of the club, would be something that I will cherish forever.

“I’ve just got to hope that I get through the rest of the week.”