Fremantle captain Alex Pearce marked the upcoming one-year anniversary of Cam McCarthy’s death by paying tribute to his former teammate and close friend after kicking a rare goal.

Pearce drifted forward in the second quarter and slammed through a monster goal from just outside 50. He was swarmed by teammates before his touching act.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Alex Pearce pays tribute to Cam McCarthy.

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As he ran back to defence after kicking just the seventh goal of his career, Pearce kissed the tape on his wrist three times and held it up to the sky.

Written on the tape was “Dardy”, which is McCarthy’s nickname.

The touching moment was almost lost during the rollercoaster clash that was eventually won by Collingwood.

McCarthy was tragically found unresponsive on May 9 last year. He was only 29 years old.

A handful of Dockers players, including Pearce, were wearing two black arm bands against the Magpies, one for McCarthy and the other to recognise the passing of Fremantle forward Isaiah Dudley’s uncle.

Pearce kicked a goal in the corresponding clash last year, which ended in a draw.

He fought back tears speaking after the match, which came two weeks after McCarthy died.

“I was nervous going back. When I had it, the hands were a little bit shaky,” Pearce said.

“I did think, I was like, ‘Cam would kick this’. I was happy to (kick it). It was for him.”

The day after the match, Pearce shared the powerful photo of his celebration alongside photos with “my great mate Dardy” and a personal reflection.

“We used to listen to a song whenever we were together,” Pearce began.

“It didn’t have much meaning but it usually meant we were having a good time.

“On reflection, it sums up the man perfectly: ‘Baby I’m one of a kind, baby I’m once in a lifetime... baby I’m a hell of a find, baby I’m once in a lifetime.’

“Cherish the moments you spend with mates and make the greatest memories you can.

“The memories I made with Cam will be etched into my heart forever, he could make you smile and lose yourself in laughter like nobody I’ve ever met.

“I hope we can all remember all the good times and aim to live a life filled with fun and happiness that will make this great man proud.

“Once in a lifetime.”