Fremantle coach Ross Lyon has leapt to the defence of Matthew Pavlich, hailing the veteran's leadership and tackling after a 34-point loss to St Kilda.
Pavlich was kept quiet by Sam Fisher in Saturday's AFL game at Etihad Stadium, where he managed three kicks and one goal.
The 34-year-old stepped down as captain earlier in 2016 after nine seasons at he helm but opted to play on.
The decision has been scrutinised by plenty of pundits, while Lyon has previously ruled out a mid-season retirement for the club great.
"It's a difficult task. He's supporting and leading," Lyon said of Pavlich on Saturday.
"I'm really pleased with Matthew's year. I think other people see it differently but the intangibles and the leadership is just fantastic.
"His ability to lead them and balance it up is second to none.
"At least he tackled in the first quarter."
Pavlich finished with a team-high eight tackles.
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