There’s something special about the Purple Army when Optus Stadium is heaving, just ask any Freo player – or in Saturday night’s case, an opposition player.

Defender Luke Ryan said it felt like Fremantle had an extra player on the field in their 35-point win against Carlton in the Len Hall Tribute Game, where Freo reclaimed second place on the ladder after taking down the in-form Carlton.

Even Ryan’s opponent Jack Martin noticed the atmosphere was at another level, with the game sold out at a 75 per cent capacity.

“It’s like having a man out there, they’re so loud. Even speaking to Jack Martin after the game and he said the crowd is so loud here! And I said this was only 75 per cent. It’s a credit to them for helping us big time,” Ryan said.

“It’s a pretty special one on a special occasion in front of almost 45,000 fans, Carlton are a really good side and we really wanted to test ourselves and we ticked that box.”

Blake Acres also embraced the moment with one of the goals of the year in the pocket in the third term, turning to the crowd to celebrate.

“Knowing it was a sell-out before the game, and then the Anzac ceremony before the game gave me goosebumps,” Acres said.

“It was my first time being in front of a crowd like that, and how electric it was, hopefully they’ll keep rocking up, which I know they will, they are real loyal passionate supporters and I love playing in front of them all

“Hopefully they keep bringing it each week and we’ll keep bringing it.”

Acres said it was important for the players to deliver in what has been a special occasion for the Club since 1996, paying tribute to the Anzacs in a pre-game ceremony.

“We’re playing football because of what they sacrificed back in the day,” Acres said.

“We spoke about the mateship they brought and how they had each other’s back and we just wanted to mimic that tonight. We wanted to play as a group of 22 guys and bring the mateship and family side of the game.”

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