In the end, the Hawks strangled the game and their 30-point half-time lead proved enough, but Harvey said the match might have ended differently had Fremantle taken its chances in the second half.
"I thought to our blokes' credit, after half time we got to the stage where Hawthorn really had to bottle it up and we just weren't able to capitalise when we had those opportunities and shots on goal," Harvey said after the match.
"At this stage we haven't got enough class, [that] probably a side like Hawthorn has got. And then there [are] issues around the contest where we're not strong enough and we can't get out of situations when we've got the ball.
"Hawthorn do get out of situations when they get the ball around those areas."
Fremantle entered the match with a definite claim to the four points on offer after winning three straight matches, while Hawthorn was reeling at 3-4 with a crippling injury list.
But Harvey said Friday night's clash showed his young side was “closing the gap” and Hawthorn was still a force of the competition.
"If anyone's writing them off, don't, because they've still got the capabilities to be able to beat anyone when they're up and running," Harvey said.
"After what we've done in the last three weeks I would have liked to have thought he [Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson] was more than happy with beating us.
"But they're the title-holders and that's how close we are. I think we're closing the gap and that's the pleasing thing."
Matthew Pavlich battled it out for best on ground honours in the midfield, finishing with 30 possessions and a goal, and Harvey spoke highly of his skipper's leadership.
"I thought he was just absolutely sensational," the coach said.
"He was trying to find a way to exploit Hawthorn. He wasn't just doing it on his own but you could clearly see that he was bringing it upon himself.
"It's the great quality of leadership and the player that he is to get us within striking range."
Harvey also praised converted full back Chris Tarrant who continued his impressive form on the last line despite opponent Lance Franklin's four goals from seven kicks.
"It was one of those duels that you go to see in a game where you'd probably say they broke even," Harvey said.
"But four goals is important in this game tonight from an individual."
