There were no mysteries as to why Freo haven’t performed over their first four games, according to senior coach Ross Lyon. 

While Freo’s start to the 2016 season may have come as a surprise, Lyon said that everything that transpires on game day has its causes and effects.

“We’re not dealing in mysteries here,” Lyon said.

“Everything that happens on a football field can be explained.”

Freo cultivating leaders

Lyon said Freo’s problems haven’t solely been skill based, but also about the nuances of the game that take time to adjust to, especially when implementing a new game plan. 

“It’s not all execution, sometimes it’s about turnover and poor defensive mechanisms being implemented,” he said 

“There were some really sloppy turnovers, but other times we had plenty of time to have an organised defence but we didn’t execute.

“It’s (having) the ability to identify it, give the players the correct method and then implement that method under game day pressure.”

Match preview v Carlton

While Lyon clearly identified what Freo have had to improve on following an 0-4 start to the season, he remained positive about what he saw against North Melbourne in round four.

“There were some really good signs with our ball movement,” he said 

“The ability for our leaders to fight and hit the scoreboard. 

“There are still some critical turnovers and lack of composure at times but with our fight and want for the contest, we played with some real character.”