The class of powerful utility Matthew Pavlich helped Fremantle maintain its unbeaten AFL run at home this season with a hard-earned 16 point win over Geelong at Subiaco Oval.

Pavlich, who was well-held when the Dockers lost to Port Adelaide last weekend, was the main difference between the two sides in what was a willing contest throughout.

The Dockers looked to be home when they led by 32 points early in the last term.

But the determined Cats ended a goal drought by slamming on five majors in eight minutes to surge to within two points.

There was plenty of time left, but the Dockers steadied with goals to Trent Croad and Paul Medhurst to notch their eighth win of the season.

Rotating between the midfield and forward line, Pavlich was just about the only player from either side able to take a contested mark inside the forward 50m arc.

Pavlich kicked four goals and had a hand in several others - a profound influence on a low-scoring match.

He finished the match with 14 kicks and three handballs.

Dockers captain Peter Bell had a wonderful duel with Cats youngster David Spriggs and they were amongst the leading possession getters on the ground.

Spriggs hurt the Dockers early with his hard run, but Peter Bell gained the ascendancy in the second half to be one of the best players on the field and he had a game high 33 touches.

Paul Hasleby also played a key role in the win and he had 15 kicks and 15 handballs.

Spriggs had 26 touches for the Cats, while Cameron Ling had a team high 29.

For the second time this season, the Cats showed plenty in Perth, but left empty handed and their record in Perth is now seven wins and seven losses.

Their commitment could not be faulted and they dominated long periods of the match but lacked the polish in attack to capitalise on their work further up the field.

Kent Kingsley kicked five goals in a lone hand up forward, but still struggled to offer a marking target and his first two goals came from free kicks, while Cameron Mooney was rarely sighted.

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