Nat Fyfe was at the top of his game against Gold Coast at Optus Stadium on Saturday and Fremantle veteran Aaron Sandilands relished the continuing success of his working relationship with the star midfielder.

Fyfe’s 24 contested possessions was two off his career best, collecting 38 disposals while kicking a goal in Freo’s 28-point win.

“He’s outstanding. He’s such a great leader,” Sandilands said.

“He leads from the front and it’s a privilege to play alongside him.”

Sandilands and Fyfe teamed up to see Fremantle win the clearances 37 to 29, with Fyfe contributing 14 of those.

The 256-game veteran also enjoyed the challenge of going up against young Gold Coast ruck Jarrod Witts, with Fremantle winning the hitouts 38-29.

“He’s a great up and coming ruckman and he’s really improved his game over the past couple of years,” Sandilands said.

“I thought it was a really good battle. I think they’re going to be a quality side this year.”

Sandilands said senior coach Ross Lyon stressed the importance of securing the win ahead of a tough away trip to Canberra to face GWS in round four.

“Ross said there’s no easy game in the AFL,” Sandilands said.

“It’s important that we keep stacking, keep improving as a team and keep growing. We know we’ve got another tough game coming this week.”

Sandilands said it was extra special to secure the win in the Starlight Purple Haze Game, which raises funds for seriously ill children and their families.

After the win, the five Starlight Stars for the game were given a guard of honour by the Freo players before heading in to sing the song with the team.

“It’s a special day for the club and our fans,” Sandilands said.

“We’ve been doing this for 16 years and the supporters get right behind us and dig deep.

“It’s important that we put on a good show and it’s great that the kids got to run off after the game with us.”

Fremantle’s relationship with the Starlight Children’s Foundation goes back to 2003, the year Sandilands played his first AFL game.

“It holds a special place in my heart and you get to make some really good relationships along the way.

“The Starlight kids are really special, there’s a young kid Lucas who was here a few years back and he’s on the road to recovery which is great to hear.

“It’s good that he can come back and have another go and enjoy the game this time.”