'Sandi' a great influence: Pavlich

[Ricochet]

http://www.fremantlefc.com.au/news/2014-05-01/sandi-a-great-influence-pavlich

Fremantle captain Matthew Pavlich has spoken glowingly of Aaron Sandilands' importance to Fremantle ahead of the ruckman's 200th game.

Sandilands chalks up the milestone in the Carlton Draught Derby at Patersons Stadium on Sunday.


The Freo skipper told Melbourne radio station 3AW how Sandilands' ability to hold sway at stoppages had often forced opposition sides to bring an extra man in to contest against his 211cm frame.

"Teams generally put a lot of work into Aaron and our clearance work, trying to nullify his dominance, whether it's a stoppage or around the ground," Pavlich said.

"It does allow other teammates to be freed up, whether it's in defence or on the fly in the midfield."

Sandilands has received external criticism about his game throughout his career, but Pavlich said everyone at Fremantle knew how good the three-time All Australian and club champion was.

"There's a lot of comment made, but at the end of the day we understand what a great influence and a great player he is for us and we'll keep backing him in," he said.