Fremantle's stoppage dominance sets up test for Sydney
Fremantle's ability to gain metres from stoppages and convert them to goals has become its most dangerous weapon in finals.
Fremantle's strength at stoppages is the key stat Sydney must shut down in Friday's preliminary final at the SCG. In their semi-final win over Geelong, the Dockers scored a season-high 76 points directly from stoppages.
The Dockers gained 1,537 metres compared to Geelong's 736. Michael Voss, a three-time premiership captain, says metres gained from stoppage matters more than clearances alone.
When Sydney faced Fremantle in round 18, the Dockers were held to 512 metres from stoppage in the first half. They exploded for 1,644 in the second half.
Fremantle kicked 7 goals to win by 38 points. Geelong managed to contain the damage in the second half but still lost, showing how critical it is to stop Fremantle's stoppage dominance early.
- 76
- Points from stoppage, semi-final
- 1,537 to 736
- Metres gained first half vs Geelong
- 1,644
- Metres gained second half, round 18
- 38 points
- Margin in round 18
Why it mattersIf Sydney allows Fremantle to dominate metres gained from stoppages, they will likely lose and miss the Grand Final.
