Fremantle vice-captain Laura Pugh says Dockers are ready to win one back over rivals at home

Fremantle vice-captain Laura Pugh says the Dockers are ready to turn the tables on AFLW powerhouse Melbourne after losing their past five matches to the Demons.

The two foundation teams have met eight times in the competition’s history with Fremantle having only won twice, their last coming more than five years ago in February 2019.

Speaking on The West Australian’s Dubya podcast, Pugh said while both teams change personnel year-to-year, Melbourne remained one of her club’s most historic rivals.

“Their team has changed a bit and they have some different personnel but we usually play them every year — in comparison to Port who we had never played before — so there’s a bit of a rivalry there,” she said.

“They’ve got us the last few times so we’re ready to get them at home.”

With Aisling McCarthy a late out with knee soreness in Saturday’s eight-point win over Port Adelaide, Fremantle showcased their midfield depth as Orlagh Lally and Hayley Miller stepped up to shoulder the workload in her absence.

Pugh said versatility and the ability to play across multiple positions would be crucial as the condensed season played out.

“Watching Gabby O’Sullivan playing in the back, then coming through the mid and the forward, she’s incredible,” Pugh said.

“Not just her but everyone’s ability to adapt to a different role as well, there has been a lot of education on different roles across the ground.

“It’s really exciting because everyone is ready but it’s very challenging for team selection I can’t imagine being the coaches.”

“I think it’s a huge strength and I guess it depends on who we are versing each week, where the match ups are, where we can expose teams and where we need a lockdown.

“Everyone is highly skilled, has a high footy IQ as well and are across Webb’s game plan this year.”

Melbourne will be without star injured star Tayla Harris for Saturday’s clash at Fremantle Community Bank Oval but Pugh said the Demons still possessed plenty of firepower.

“Kate Hore their captain she’s incredible, I remember I debuted and she was playing as well so she’s played in every game against us and is an all round player,” she said.

“She can also go back, mid, forward and keeps her team together and keeps them up. But it won’t just be a focus on one person.”

“Everyone playing their role is going to be really important because they’re really strong across the whole ground, but we know we are as well which is great, we can’t wait to match up against them.”