ROSS Lyon has swung the selection axe in response to Fremantle's horror show against Port Adelaide, with veteran defender Zac Dawson dropped among five other mystery omissions for Saturday night's clash against the Western Bulldogs.



Lyon wouldn't reveal Freo's full list of outs ahead of teams being announced on Thursday evening, however senior players were on the chopping block following the 89-point thrashing from the Power.



After 166 games – the vast majority under Lyon at St Kilda and Fremantle – Dawson has been dropped and the 31-year-old's career hangs in the balance with his contract expiring later this year.



"He's still defending really well. We'd like to be better with the ball, clearly that's not Zac's strength," Lyon said.



"He understands, he's happy to play his role and go back to Peel and play and try to force an opportunity."



The senior coach confirmed that youngsters Harley Balic and last year's No.8 draft pick Griffin Logue will be blooded against the reigning premiers at Domain Stadium.



Hard-working rookie Brady Grey has also forced his way into the 22, alongside half-back Ethan Hughes and utilities Hayden Crozier and Tommy Sheridan.



"It was obvious we needed to act and make some changes (after last weekend)," Lyon said.



"We'll think it will give us some real enthusiasm.



"They won't be perfect, but we've got a football program that prepares them and Peel plays in a similar fashion (to Freo) so they should be able to come in and execute their role."



Balic, taken with pick 38 in the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, has been banging down the selection door after three standout games in the WAFL – where he leads the possession count with 92 disposals.



The inside midfielder's first season at Freo was ruined by a wrist injury although he made it back in time to play in Peel's maiden Grand Final triumph last year.



Saturday's game will be the first time Fremantle has blooded two debutant since Lyon rested players en masse in round 23, 2015 before finals.



Lyon last week doubted whether Logue was ready for his debut, but he was keen to see what the athletic tall defender has to offer in the AFL furnace.



"We've only got upside, there's real growth in him. He certainly won't be David Dench in his first game but he'll be Griffin Logue who can compete and roll off," Lyon said.

Brady Grey, 21, will be elevated off the rookie list to play his fourth career game, while 22-year-old Ethan Hughes will make his seventh appearance in purple.