A number of Fremantle’s young players will play on the MCG for the first time in their AFL careers on Friday night against Collingwood, and Darcy Tucker said it’s what every aspiring football player dreams of. 

Tucker will join Connor Blakely, Lachie Weller and Sam Collins in playing their first AFL game at the ‘home of football’, and he said having the experience on Friday night football made the occasion all the more special.

“It’s my first time on the G’ at the senior level and there’s a few other young players as well, so it’s a dream come true,” Tucker said.

“Friday night, under lights on the big stage, it’s what everyone dreams of and we can’t wait to get out there, improve and play some good footy.” 

Country boys collide on Friday night

Tucker has averaged more than 14 disposals and kicked three goals in his first five games, and said Freo’s halfback continuity has started to pay dividends and will be crucial against the Magpies’ on the vast expanses of the MCG. 

“Players like ‘Croz’ (Hayden Crozier), and ‘Hilly’ (Stephen Hill) when they’re at halfback, they give us a lot of spring with our ball movement,” he said. 

“It’s really starting to click at the moment, so it will really help the team going forward (against Collingwood).” 

Wait paying off for mature-age Collins

While Tucker was excited about the prospect of Friday night footy at the G’, he was well aware of the threat presented by a talented Collingwood team in front of a big home crowd. 

“They (Collingwood) have a strong following, a lot of supporters, and are going to come out and to give it their best shot and compete at the highest level,” he said.

“They’re going to come out firing and look to knock us over, and we’re going to go out there, hopefully it all clicks and get another win on the board.”