Fremantle Dockers coach Justin Longmuir is facing increasing calls to shake up his team’s style of play, with many—including AFL analyst Damian Barrett—arguing that the Dockers’ current approach is too predictable and lacks excitement. Barrett has urged Longmuir to move away from the “vanilla” and overly structured game plan, instead embracing a more dynamic, attacking brand of football that could unlock the team’s full potential.
Fremantle has shown glimpses of brilliance over the past few seasons, but their conservative, defense-first strategy has often been criticized for stifling creativity and failing to capitalize on their young talent. Barrett believes that unless Longmuir loosens the reins and gives his players a license to thrill, Freo could struggle to compete against the AFL’s top contenders.
“They have the talent, but they need to be bolder. Right now, they’re too predictable, too safe,” Barrett said. With stars like Caleb Serong, Andrew Brayshaw, and Jye Amiss in their ranks, the Dockers have the firepower to play an exciting brand of footy—but it’s up to Longmuir to unleash them.
As the AFL season progresses, all eyes will be on Freo to see if they can break free from their “vanilla” reputation and inject some much-needed flair into their game.
