The one thing holding Freo back even as they strengthen their grip on the top of the ladder

June 29, 2026 — 10:28am

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Welcome to the Western Watercooler, where we digest the talking points from the weekend’s games – and the highlights, frustrations and silver linings WA footy fans can cling to as the season progresses.

The Dockers strengthened their grip on top spot, with an emphatic 51-point belting of the Suns pushing their buffer atop the ladder to two games.

West Coast returned from the bye but looked a different team to the one who ran out in the month before the break.

They were belted early by the Blues and never recovered as Josh Fraser made it six straight wins as interim coach.

The Dockers’ defence showed not only why they’re the best in the competition, but by a significant margin.

They’re organised, in sync, know when to attack and when to play the percentages and are hardly ever exposed or beaten in one on one........

© WA Today