Fremantle's defenders have been the toast of the AFL club this week but midfielder Michael Barlow wants the on-ball brigade to get in on the act against Adelaide.
The Dockers copped a 47-32 thrashing at the clearances last week, allowing the Western Bulldogs to record a whopping 67 inside-50m entries.
However, with defenders Luke McPharlin, Michael Johnson, Zac Dawson, Paul Duffield and Garrick Ibbotson standing tall, the Dockers escaped with a 38-point win to keep them within striking distance of the top four.
Although Stephen Hill starred against the Bulldogs, Nat Fyfe tallied just 14 possessions after injuring his ankle early in the game, while fellow prime mover David Mundy was restricted to just 17 disposals.
Fremantle's midfield stars can't afford to have another off day on Sunday against a Crows outfit boasting match-winning ball magnets Rory Sloane, Patrick Dangerfield and Scott Thompson.
Barlow praised the effort of Fremantle's defence, but he hopes they won't be forced to do as much work this week at Patersons Stadium.
"Us as a midfield group - myself, Dave, Nathan, Hilly - we probably need to buy the defenders a few coffees, because they were outstanding early to keep us in the game," Barlow said.
"Adelaide are a team that's really building.
"Rory Sloane plays with a lion heart, and Dangerfield on his day is nearly the best in the competition.
"Their team drivers are as good as any in the competition. We're armed and ready for what's coming."
Fyfe was on crutches after the win over the Bulldogs, and will have to pass a fitness test on Friday if he is to take his place against the Crows.
McPharlin is also in some doubt after being reduced to running laps at training on Wednesday.
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