The recent passing of the 29-year-old Fremantle player, McCrathy, has deeply impacted both his teammates and supporters. The sight of senior players like Pearce and Fyfe visibly mourning their loss would have resonated with many, regardless of whether they knew McCrathy personally. The team’s coach, Justin Longmuir, commended his players for taking the field under such tragic circumstances and revealed that some were close to not playing at all. The profound impact of McCrathy’s passing on the team’s mindset and performance is immeasurable, but it was clearly significant.
Meanwhile, West Coast Eagles’ forward Liam Ryan is struggling to regain his high-flying form after being plagued by injuries in the past year. Once known for his exceptional skills and ability to take breathtaking marks, Ryan now appears hesitant and lacking in confidence. Coach Adam Simpson has acknowledged Ryan’s nervousness ahead of games, evident in his subdued performances on the field. Despite a slight improvement in the second half of a recent game, Ryan’s impact and output still need to improve significantly for the Eagles to succeed.
The Eagles are looking for ways to help Ryan rediscover his spark and confidence, with a potential move to half-back being considered. As a key player in the team’s rebuilding phase, Ryan’s performance is crucial to setting standards and aiding in the development of younger players. It is hoped that by recalling Ryan’s past successes, such as his memorable mark against Melbourne five years ago, he can find the motivation to return to top form. Revisiting moments of greatness may be the key to reigniting Ryan’s signature leap and energy on the field.
Overall, the emotional toll of losing a teammate has been keenly felt by both the Fremantle Dockers and their fans, while Liam Ryan’s struggles with confidence and form are being closely watched by the West Coast Eagles. The impact of McCrathy’s passing on the team’s performance cannot be measured, but it is clear that his absence has had a profound effect. As both teams navigate their respective challenges, there is a shared desire to honor McCrathy’s memory and support Ryan in finding his way back to his best form. The coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the trajectory of both teams and their ability to overcome adversity.
