UPDATE: Fremantle midfielder Gabby Newton is rallying her team after a heartbreaking 12-point defeat to the Adelaide Crows at Norwood Oval that dashed their hopes of a finals berth. The Dockers needed a victory in the final round of the home-and-away season to secure a top-eight finish, but their dreams were thwarted once again by a resilient Crows side.
The loss is particularly stinging for the Dockers, who believed they had the talent and determination to make the finals. Newton, who delivered an impressive performance with a game-high 28 disposals, eight tackles, and three clearances, expressed her disappointment but also her resolve to fuel their pursuit for the 2026 AFLW season.
“We believe 100 percent that we should be in finals and not to have given ourselves that chance is disappointing,” Newton told The West Australian. “It was probably our best effort, but we’re just very disappointed.”
Fremantle’s struggles this season were marked by a rocky start, with the team recovering from a 1-3 record. Newton highlighted the importance of their journey and the lessons learned through adversity. “Over the last month, we’ve been able to come back from a lot of adversity,” she added, noting the pride in their progress.
The rivalry with Adelaide is intensifying, with Newton acknowledging that past encounters have laid the groundwork for fierce future contests. “We did reference that semifinal last year and the disappointing results we’ve had against Adelaide,” she said. “Today, we really believed we could ping them, and it will become something that drives us forward.”
Head coach Lisa Webb addressed the team post-game, emphasizing the need to learn from missed opportunities. “She tackled it head-on, really,” Newton stated. “She was clearly very proud of our program and our team and how far we’ve come.”
The Dockers’ focus now shifts to the upcoming season, with Newton expressing confidence in their ability to compete. “We’ve got a lot to be proud of,” she concluded, hinting at a renewed commitment to push for a premiership in 2026.
As the dust settles on this frustrating defeat, all eyes will be on Fremantle as they prepare for the challenges ahead. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this resilient team will bounce back and tackle next season with renewed vigor.
