Eighth-placed Freo is precariously placed with a 4-4 win-loss record ahead of the Saturday night clash.
Since 2008 just two sides have clawed their way from 4-5 into a qualifying final.
But giving some hope to Fremantle fans, one of those sides was coached by Ross Lyon who engineered a double chance for St Kilda in 2008 after the team was 4-5.
A win over the Cats could be just the confidence boost Freo needs, however even a 5-4 record comes with no guarantees.
Only three of 23 teams have broken into the top four with that record since 2008.
However, the Dockers can look to their own history for inspiration.
Fremantle was 5-4 in '06, but nailed down third spot by winning 10 of their next 13 games.
Don't write them off yet.
Twitter: @TravKing_AFL
