Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir had a sense pre-match Michael Walters was up for the battle as he put the forward-line on his again whereas making a strong anti-racism stance throughout his starring four-goal efficiency at Norwood Oval.
Walters was arguably the Dockers’ finest and most constant participant, with Longmuir saying he “brought a few others along for the ride” of their thrilling come-from-behind victory over Gold Coast.
The 32-year-old booted his staff’s first main of the match 4 minutes into the opening time period earlier than pointing on the pores and skin on his left arm whereas celebrating.
It comes simply days after he can fellow Indigenous Fremantle participant Nathan Wilson, in addition to Crows star Izak Rankine, and Brisbane livewire Charlie Cameron, have been the targets of vile racial abuse on social media.
“I’m not just proud of him today, I’m proud of what him and some of the others Indigenous leaders have done across our game to bring this stuff to light and try to stamp it out,” Longmuir stated.
“That stuff aside, I just loved the way he played. He played with great intensity and I could tell he was up for it in the warm-up with his voice and communication.
“I thought his contest really set the tone for us early and he really maximised his opportunities and brought a few others along for the ride.”
Longmuir wasn’t certain if Walters had any further motivation out of what occurred in the course of the week however had been impressed together with his vitality since getting back from an Achilles harm in spherical two in opposition to North Melbourne.
He booted two final-quarter objectives that evening adopted by 4 within the Western Derby win in spherical three to take his season tally to a team-high 10 in three-and-a-quarter video games.
“I would have to have a chat to him and see whether he got any extra motivation out of any of that,” Longmuir stated.
“He’s in really good form, he lowered his colours last week but he’s had a really good start to the year.
“He’s really passionate and cares a lot about the club and wants to see it succeed and I’ve seen those actions drive his football.
“Since he came back into side, he’s really lifted our energy. Maybe he found a bit more motivation out of the stuff that happened during the week and he wanted to make a statement and he sure did.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
