"We'll be back": Pearce vows GF return after heartbreaking loss

Fremantle captain Alex Pearce has vowed that the Dockers will return to the Grand Final stage after coming agonisingly short in this year’s edition.

With just under five minutes left in the game, Patrick Voss kicked his third goal of the match to give Freo a 17-point lead with their famed Wharfie Time being activated.

But the tide quickly turned on Freo with Brisbane kicking the last four goals of the match to claim a seven-point seeing them complete their historic three-peat.

Pearce’s day was also curtailed early after suffering an Achilles injury during the third quarter.

Speaking post-match, the key defender thanked the Lions for an incredible performance.

“First off, I'd like to clearly thank Harris (Andrews), Chris (Fagan) and the Brisbane Lions Football Club,” he said in his address.

“That was a hell of a game today, and it was a pleasure to be a part of.

“But the dynasty that you guys have created, it's been an inspiration to the competition; you deserve everything you've got.”

Pearce would also thank his teammates for a historic season which saw them claim the minor premiership for only the second time in their club’s history.

“To my boys, I'm so proud of every one of you,” he continued.

“The way you've fought today, the way we fought this year, the people that you are, and I know that we'll be back.

“We've been supported by thousands and thousands of fans throughout this season, and this week in particular has been really special, and we're so grateful for all of your support.

“There's one thing I know about this group and this club, that we won't give up and we'll fight, and we'll be back here again, so that's it.”