For most AFL players, the sight of master tagger Ryan Crowley approaching them is enough to make their heart sink.
But no so for Dockers midfielder Stephen Hill, who has been picking the brain of his teammate in recent times in an attempt to overcome his poor record against taggers.
Hill, who is renowned for his line-breaking abilities, has struggled to deal with close-checking opponents throughout his 99-game career.
In last Sunday’s win over St Kilda, Hill was restricted to just 12 touches by Clint Jones.
Crowley has established himself as the best run-with player in the competition over the past 18 months, with his tactics drawing a mix of praise and fury in football circles.
Hill, the No.3 pick from the 2008 national draft, said Crowley had given him some vital tips on how best to shake off a tag.
“During training he helps me out,” Hill said ahead of Sunday’s western derby against West Coast.
“He’s just given me advice on things he finds difficult when he plays on opposition players.
“He’s given me advice on how to beat them.
“Things like getting lots of blocks from other teammates.
“So I try to get teammates to help me out and also just doing little things like running around and finding space, finding my own footy.”
With West Coast duo Scott Selwood (thumb) and Patrick McGinnity (suspended) ruled out of action this week, Hill may get some extra breathing space in what’s become a high-stakes western derby.
The Eagles, who sit a game adrift of eighth spot, are desperate for victory in order to enhance their finals chances, while fifth-placed Fremantle are hunting a top-four berth.