By Justin Chadwick
Fremantle veteran David Mundy says his retirement roadshow has felt weird at times, but he’s hoping it has another three weeks left.
Mundy’s career looked set to end in disappointing fashion on Saturday night when the Western Bulldogs opened up a 42-1 lead in the elimination final at Optus Stadium.
But a four-goal burst before half-time sparked the Dockers into gear, with Fremantle dominating the match from that point on to record a 13-point victory.
Nathan O’Driscoll, David Mundy and Michael Frederick celebrate.Credit:Getty Images
The result sets up a semi-final against Collingwood at the MCG next Saturday night, with the winner of that to face Sydney in a preliminary final the week after.
Mundy has been on somewhat of a farewell tour since announcing his retirement soon after the round 20 loss to Melbourne.
Fremantle players are desperate to send Mundy off with a flag, and the 37-year-old says it’s unusual not knowing exactly when his last match will be.
“This whole retirement show has been rolling on for a little while with no set end date,” Mundy told Best on Ground.
“It’s been a bit weird to be honest. Hopefully we’ve got a few more in us.
“People have been asking me, ‘How do you feel, it might be your last game?’
“But I’m certainly not going into games with that mindset.”
Mundy’s composure was important against the Bulldogs, with the 375-game veteran tallying 20 disposals and six clearances in a cool and calm display.
But it was his younger teammates who starred in the midfield.
Caleb Serong racked up 33 disposals to go with his 10 clearances and a goal, while Andrew Brayshaw finished with 32 possessions and a goal.
Fremantle boast arguably the most exciting young list in the AFL, and Mundy has felt privileged to play a part in their development.
“For the last three years I’ve had the best seat in the house,” Mundy said.
“(I was there) to set them up early days, but now am watching them take over and flourish in different roles in our team.
“They’ve really come up quickly to AFL standard and understanding what’s required.
“They’ve got the next 15 years to carry this football club forward. It’s in good hands.”
