Dockers Ready to Tackle Richmond in Potential Wet-Weather Showdown
Fremantle is gearing up for a challenging Round 3 clash against Richmond at Optus Stadium this Saturday afternoon, with forecasts predicting a significant deluge. The possibility of Tropical Cyclone Narelle impacting the Western Australian coast has put the AFL on alert, prompting close monitoring of conditions leading up to the 1:15 pm bounce.
Despite the unpredictable nature of the weather, Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir expressed confidence in his team’s ability to adapt. He highlighted the Dockers’ strong performance in wet conditions last season, where they secured five victories. This experience has prompted an earlier focus on wet-weather strategies this year.
“We’ve got to talk about it. We spoke about it with the players,” Longmuir stated at his pre-match press conference on Thursday. “We thought we were good in the wet last year, so we revisited a couple of those things we did in the wet last year, which made us really competitive in those games. Sometimes, you wonder how early to go with that messaging, because the forecast can be a bit unpredictable. But, yeah, it looks like we’re going to get a fair dose of rain, so we’ve gone a bit earlier this year.”
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast up to 40mm of rain on Friday and an additional 20mm on Saturday, suggesting a challenging day for players and spectators alike.
Longmuir indicated that the predicted inclement weather might influence team selection, though the Dockers’ commitment to their two-ruck strategy remains firm.
“We’ll have a chat about it later. Maybe, maybe not,” he mused when asked about potential team changes. “Sometimes there are more stoppages in the wet. Probably not, but it could. We play two rucks. Sometimes you get a lot more stoppages, repeat stoppages, in the wet, so the rucks actually become more important.” This suggests that the increased number of contested situations in wet weather could amplify the importance of Fremantle’s ruck division.
Adding to the team’s potential strength, defender Brennan Cox is reportedly in contention to make his first appearance of the 2026 season. Cox has been sidelined with a calf injury for the opening two rounds.
“He got through training really well on Tuesday and feels really good,” Longmuir confirmed. “So, yeah, we want to get him going and getting him into the season.” The inclusion of Cox would provide a significant boost to Fremantle’s defensive stocks as they prepare to face the Tigers.
The Dockers’ preparedness for adverse conditions, combined with the potential return of a key defender, sets the stage for an intriguing contest. While Richmond will also be contending with the elements, Fremantle’s recent history in the wet and their proactive approach to preparation suggest they will be well-equipped to handle whatever the weather throws at them on Saturday. The Optus Stadium surface, known for its excellent drainage, will undoubtedly be tested, but the focus remains on how both teams can adapt their game plans to maximise their chances of victory amidst the expected downpour. The tactical battle, often amplified in wet conditions, will be a key narrative to watch, with Longmuir’s emphasis on the rucks hinting at a strategy focused on winning the contested ball and controlling stoppages.
