But the comfortable 21.10 (136) to 9.6 (60) win might have come at a cost with Hayden Ballantyne, who booted five goals in the victory, placed on report for a behind-the-play hit to the stomach of tagger Tomas Bugg.

Ballantyne already missed one game earlier this season through suspension and has 87.50 carryover points.

The Dockers extended their advantage at every change having led by 16 points at quarter-time, 30 at half-time and 41 at three-quarter time but put their foot down in the final term with seven goals to two.

Nat Fyfe was outstanding for Fremantle with 29 possessions and two goals while Tendai Mzungu racked up 26 touches, David Mundy 25, Lachie Neale 24, Michael Barlow 23, Cameron Sutcliffe 22 and Lee Spurr 22.

Anthony Morabito played only his second game since 2010 and was again the substitute coming on late in the third quarter to a standing ovation, and was impressive with 15 disposals.

Skipper Mathew Pavlich made a welcome return with three goals, while Nick Suban also bobbed up with three. 

Ryan Crowley was also at his stopping best limiting Tom Scully to just 16 touches for the Giants.

Despite the losing margin, there was a lot to like from the Giants in a competitive showing for the most part against a premiership heavyweight.

Toby Greene was in his second game back from his club-imposed suspension and was one of the best afield with 35 possessions and a goal.

Callan Ward had 29 touches, Dylan Shiel 28, Phil Davis 23 in defence and Devon Smith 23.

Lachie Whitfield kicked three goals while Adam Tomlinson kicked two from 19 touches and 10 marks.

Jeremy Cameron also regained some form with 17 touches and seven marks while kicking two goals from six shots.

Shane Mumford also did well in the ruck limiting the influence of Fremantle giant Aaron Sandilands.