Fremantle will pin its defensive hopes on a young backline in 2018 with senior coach Ross Lyon seeing potential quickly turning into ability from the burgeoning unit.
While 33-year-old Michael Johnson will lead the back six against Adelaide on Sunday in Freo’s JLT Community Series opener at Strathalbyn Oval, he will be joined by the likes of Connor Blakely, Luke Ryan, Darcy Tucker and the returning Alex Peace in defence - all aged 22 years and younger.
While delighted to see the return of Pearce after more than a year on the sidelines, Lyon is also pleased with the progress of Blakely and Tucker during the pre-season.
“We’ve seen Connor Blakely’s maturity coming through and he’s starting to understand and take ownership of the team,” Lyon said.
“He can play midfield and back now.
“Darcy Tucker’s had a super summer and he’s really come on. We would like it to be a natural progression to benefit us, but until we see it, it should help.”
Lyon also expects the back six to be boosted by the addition of new recruit Nathan Wilson, who joined the club from GWS during the 2017 NAB AFL Trade Period.
The 25-year-old showed his elite ability to rebound from defence with the Giants, amassing the second highest metres gained total in the AFL in 2017.
“Nathan brings great bounce and kick,” Lyon said.
“He’s an elite kick and speed. We knew he was a really good person and family orientated.
“He’s quietly really professional and shows good leadership and is really coachable. He’s walked through the door with that really strongly.”
