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Dockers Dominate Dons Amid Turf Controversy at Optus Stadium
ROUND 15 – FREMANTLE vs ESSENDON - Fremantle Dockers cruise to a 104-63 win over Essendon, but it’s the battered Optus Stadium surface that steals the headlines in Round 15.
AFL
6/19/20251 min read
Fremantle (Dockers) delivered a commanding performance against Essendon (Dons), winning 16.8 (104) to 9.9 (63) in Round 15 at Optus Stadium. Their defence tightened in the second half, keeping Essendon to just 9.9 and ensuring a fourth consecutive victory.
However, the game was overshadowed by the state of the playing surface — worn down from three AFL matches and an NRL State of Origin clash in just six days. Although ground staff worked overnight, several areas were visibly damaged, raising concerns about player safety and turf resilience.
On-field, the Dockers’ midfield won the clearance battle decisively, led by Caleb Serong and Luke Jackson. Their controlled entries into the forward 50 allowed a slick rotation of goalkickers, while the Dons’ inaccuracy (9.9) kept the Dockers in control throughout.
Essendon showed glimpses—Elijah Tsatas gathered 30+ disposals—but could never match Fremantle’s defensive pressure. This win cements the Dockers in the top six but leaves authorities under pressure over the field’s condition.
