The Serve

Headland and Pav hand Tigers another loss

Any doubts about the validity of the Fremantle Dockers in 2007 would not have been answered by today’s efforts, despite their 21 point win over the hapless Richmond Tigers.

The Tigers threatened to break away with the game and score their first win of the year, leading by 26 midway through the third term. A combination of stage fright, plus stellar performances from Des Headland and Matthew Pavlich, relegated Richmond to an 0-10-1 record, while the Dockers end the first half of the season at an almost respectable 5-6, with their season on life support.

Headland kicked five goals, with three during the crucial third term whilke PAvich seemed on a mission to prove to critics - particularly former St.Kilda coach Grant Thomas - that he is not a selfish player. His charity was striking, until sheer pride took over and he drilled three goals of his own. Pavlich was the talking point in the after match conference.

“Matthew is a person who doesn’t pay too much to press reports, positive or negative”, said coach Chris Connolly, who would be a relieved man. “When the game was on the line, he really stood up”.