The Dockers mount yet another last quarter comeback; Chesser chasing consistency

Alex Pearce was undoubtedly the hero on Saturday night as the Dockers secured an enthralling one-goal win over Port Adelaide.

His decisive major in the final minute of the match after taking a huge pack grab was the stuff of legends as Fremantle secured another valuable four points in their charge towards September.

It was the perfect way to mark his return to the team which had enjoyed plenty of recent success in his absence.

But the group’s ability to pull off another comeback victory underlines this Dockers side simply can’t be written off.

For the fifth time in their past seven matches, they’ve trailed at the final term before going on to salute.

They’ve been forced to grind down teams, and it would be providing the squad, coaching staff and entire club with the belief they can overcome any obstacle.

In recent years, this young and talented side would have folded.

On Saturday, they produced their second-worst quarter of the season, were being bullied in the contest at stages, lost the free-kick count 29-12 and yet still found a way to prevail for their first triumph over the Power at Adelaide Oval in eight attempts.

They’ve maturing before our very eyes.

They’ve developed a resolve and resilience which will hold them in good stead for the challenges which will be thrown their way for the remainder of the season.

Chesser chases consistency

At 22, and taken as a first round draft pick, Campbell Chesser could easily have notched 70 games.

However, after four injury interrupted seasons on the Eagles list, the highly touted athlete hasn’t even played half this.

Ankle surgery in February threatened to wipe out 2025, but importantly, the 2021 draftee is back in the side and showing promise.

Chesser is desperately chasing consistency, in his body and performances.

The out of contract winger is playing for his career, at least at the Eagles – and since being recalled a fortnight ago – he’s showing he could still yet be part of West Coast’s rebuild.

Chesser’s running power was on show against ladder leaders Adelaide while he’s displayed his disposal and composure is improving.

He’s hit the scoreboard in consecutive games and could easily have been a multiple goalkicker if not for some ring rust against the Crows.

But there’s enough there to show why West Coast should persist.

With even luck, Chesser will play out the final two games and finish the year injury free, ready to tackle a crucial pre-season.

There’s enough upside in Chesser for the Eagles to re-sign the wingman.

A contract with a low base payment, but heavily stacked with incentives, can work for both parties.