There was a time when Fremantle could not buy a win at Etihad Stadium. Between 2007 and 2011, the Dockers lost 15 of 17 games at the Docklands venue but they have turned that right around under Ross Lyon. Saturday night's win over Carlton marked Fremantle's fifth win from as many attempts at Etihad Stadium since Lyon took over for the 2012 season.
2. Carrazzo's year of frustration continues
Just as he was gaining some momentum after missing 10 weeks with a calf problem between rounds five and 15, important Carlton midfielder Andrew Carrazzo suffered another setback. The 29-year-old limped from the field and down the race just before quarter-time, and was subbed from the game shortly after the first break. Blues coach Mick Malthouse said the problem was once again a calf, but hoped it was only "badly bruised". In a hard-fought encounter in which several players appeared battered and sore, Fremantle's main casualty was Clancee Pearce, who was handed the red vest and an ice pack for his right calf early in the last term. He will have scans early in the week.
3. Ballantyne the enemy again
Hayden Ballantyne has a knack of getting under his opponents' skin, and he achieved it again on Saturday night. The busy small forward had his jumper torn off during the third quarter and, after winning a free kick and 50-metre penalty, kicked a goal with his torso on display. From that point on he became enemy No.1 to the Carlton supporters – so much so that Fremantle's team manager complained to the AFL about the abuse the 26-year-old was receiving each time he came off the ground. As a result, extra security was dispatched to the area around the Dockers' interchange bench and a small group of Blues fans was moved to different seats. Ballantyne finished with three goals.
4. Crowley claims another scalp
Fremantle tagger Ryan Crowley can add Marc Murphy to his long list of victims this season after enjoying a comprehensive victory over the Blues captain. Murphy managed just 13 disposals (four kicks and nine handballs) and failed to influence the match. If there were a spot for a tagger in the All Australian team – a concept that has been debated – Crowley would surely have first claim.
5. Walters and Tuohy go goal for goal
Alongside Ballantyne, fellow Fremantle small forward Michael Walters was also damaging. Aided by an outstanding work rate, he booted four goals – the most of any player on the ground. But Walters' direct opponent Zach Tuohy enjoyed some moments of his own as well. The Irishman kicked three goals off half-back, each as impressive as the next. His two goals in quick succession during the third quarter gave the Blues momentum and the lead, before Fremantle regained control.
