1. Can we put a lock on Lachie?
Lachie Neale is the competition’s highest possession winner, with 376 at an average of 34.2 per game. With Nathan Fyfe sidelined, the prolific midfielder is the obvious target for a day with Mitch Robinson, who did a great job on the in-form Bryce Gibbs last week.
2. Will the Stef & Westy Show finally click?
There have been plenty of comments from Lions fans about what the team’s best ruck set-up is and if big Stef Martin is better as a lone ruckman, as he was when he produced his stellar run of form in recent seasons. The home side has again opted for the shared option with either Trent West or Stef moving up forward as a target when not rucking. Against a Freo side missing Aaron Sandilands and Jonathon Griffin, this is a make-or-break week for the Lions’ ruck duo.
3. How big is the return of Harris & Dizzy?
The Lions’ defensive division will be happy to see the return from injury of young tyros Harris Andrews and Darcy Gardiner who – while relatively young – will still add some much-needed experience. With Matthew Pavlich out of the Freo team, the Lions’ defence will be keen to put in a complete performance against an undermanned opposition.
4. Can the Lions make each kick count?
The Lions are ranked last in the league for effective disposals with a disposal efficiency that sits just over 70 percent. In Round 11, Carlton were able to take 19 intercept marks (14 of these in defense), and this was partly due to the Lions' inability to hit targets. Paired with this was the Lions' inability to make their shots on goal count. They had a set shot accuracy of 31% against Carlton, if they're to beat Fremantle at the Gabba, scoreboard pressure will be very important.
5. Can the Lions put an end to the their red time woes?
Hawthorn kicked 12 goals to two in red-time against the Lions in Round 10, while the Western Bulldogs, Sydney and Carlton have all made the Lions hurt in recent weeks.
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