Eastern Conference Grand Final: Sydney Swans Reserves v Belconnen Magpies

[ugg]

All Together Now
NEAFL Eastern Conference Grand Final

Sydney Swans Reserves v Belconnen Magpies
Sunday 15th September 2013
Kippax Oval

Note: Match being streamed on neafl.com.au!

The Reserves will be hoping that the third time's a charm having succumbed on Grand Final Day in the past 2 years to Ainslie and Queanbeyan respectively. They will go into the match with confidence, assured in the knowledge they've had the better of the Magpies in their 2 meetings this year. Belconnen on the other hand will try and utilise their 'home ground advantage' with the match being fortuitously scheduled for Kippax Oval due to some renovations currently taking place at the usual Manuka Oval venue.

Another factor to take into consideration is the difference between the finals schedules of both sides. The Swans are well rested after earning 2 byes in the 3 finals weeks, the Magpies have had to back up each week and were almost run over by a fast finishing Ainslie side last week in the Preliminary Final. Will the rest be a hindrance or a help to the Swans or will the battle-hardened Magpies be in the right mindset to cause the upset.

Eastern Conference Ladder
Team|Played|Wins|Losses|Draws|Byes|For|Against|Per centage|Points
Sydney Swans Reserves|18|12|6|0|4|1990|1393|142.86%|48
Belconnen|18|12|6|0|4|2133|1568|88.24%|24
Ainslie|18|11|7|0|4|1737|1573|110.43%|44
Eastlake|18|10|8|0|4|1441|1554|92.73%|40
UWS Giants|18|9|9|0|4|2107|1605|131.28%|36
{colsp=10}-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Queanbeyan|18|9|9|0|4|1616|1779|90.84%|36
Hills Eagles|18|7|11|0|4|1637|1847|88.63%|28
Sydney Uni|18|6|12|0|4|1587|1865|85.09%|24
Tuggeranong|18|2|16|0|4|936|2262|41.38%|8


Past Meetings
2013
R11 Reserves 20.20 (140) defeated Belconnen 6.13 (49) @ Sydney Cricket Ground

Goals: White 5, Jack 3, Kilpatrick 3, Towers 2, Sands 2, Weir, Hadden, Pola-Smith, Membrey, Lamb
Best: Biggs, Jack, Lamb, Richards, Armstrong, White

SF2 Reserves 23.12 (150) defeated Belconnen 10.9 (69) @ Blacktown International Sports Park

Goals: Membrey 6, Towers 2, Perris 2, Naismith 2, Lamb 2, Armstrong, Jetta, Wray, Green, Hoctor, Spinks, Head, Zoppo, Lloyd
Best: Lamb, Lloyd, Robinson, Membrey, Armstrong, Perris

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2012
R21 Reserves 31.11 (197) defeated Belconnen 10.6 (66) @ Sydney Cricket Ground
The Reserves were in devastating form, bouncing back from their previous week's defeat to the Lions Reserves, to crush former powerhouse Belconnen by 131 points. Thanks to some fantastic conversion in front of the sticks, the Reserves led by 43 points at half time and pulled away convincingly in the premiership quarter with a 12 goals to 2 showing to put the result of the match beyond doubt. Trent Dennis-Lane continued his superb form playing both up forward and in the midfield and finished with 7 goals while Jesse White had his best showing of the season playing as the primary ruckman.

Goals: Dennis-Lane 7, White 6, Lamb 3, Morton 2, Cunningham 2, Gordon 2, Spangher 2, Naismith, Roos, Mitchell, Lynch, Brown, Potter, Broome
Best: Dennis-Lane, White, Parker, Brown, Lamb, Moore

Recent Form
Reserves
Round|Team|Venue|Result|F|A
R1|BYE|
R2|UWS|Away|WIN|107|102|
R3|Gold Coast|Home|WIN|110|65|
R4|Tuggeranong|Away|WIN|237|40|
R5|Hills Eagles|Home|WIN|148|86|
R6|BYE|
R7|Brisbane|Home|LOSS|81|104|
R8|UWS|Away|WIN|127|78|
R9|Queanbeyan|Home|WIN|151|38|
R10|Ainslie|Away|WIN|123|49|
R11|Belconnen|Home|WIN|140|49|
R12|Gold Coast|Away|LOSS|50|70|
R13|BYE|
R14|NT Thunder|Away|LOSS|59|112|
R15|Brisbane|Home|LOSS|57|125|
R16|Eastlake|Away|WIN|109|49|
R17|UWS|Home|LOSS|79|142|
R18|Gold Coast|Away|WIN|85|64|
R19|BYE|
R20|Brisbane|Away|LOSS|86|119|
R21|UWS|Home|WIN|110|45|
R22|Sydney Uni|Away|WIN|131|56|
SF2|Belconnen|Home|WIN|150|69|



Belconnen
Round|Team|Venue|Result|F|A
R1|Eastlake|Home|LOSS|67|113|
R2|Sydney Uni|Home|WIN|152|117|
R3|Tuggeranong|Home|WIN|118|63|
R4|BYE|
R5|UWS|Home|LOSS|127|137|
R6|Mt Gravatt|Away|WIN|164|48|
R7|Queanbeyan|Home|WIN|136|73|
R8|BYE|
R9|Hills Eagles|Away|WIN|141|88|
R10|Broadbeach|Home|WIN|119|83|
R11|Sydney|Away|LOSS|49|140|
R12|BYE|
R13|Sydney Uni|Away|WIN|114|81|
R14|Ainslie|Away|LOSS|96|130|
R15|Tuggeranong|Away|WIN|118|47|
R16|Hills Eagles|Home|WIN|152|89|
R17|Queanbeyan|Away|WIN|136|72|
R18|Eastlake|Away|LOSS|53|162|
R19|Ainslie|Home|WIN|118|72|
R20|BYE|
R21|Queanbeyan|Away|LOSS|82|107|
R22|Tuggeranong|Home|WIN|191|46|
QF|Ainslie|Home|WIN|124|86|
SF2|Sydney|Away|LOSS|69|150|
PF|Ainslie|Home|WIN|123|107|



Last Round

See above for details of the Swans win over Belconnen 2 weeks ago.

Belconnen 18.15 (123) defeated Ainslie 16.11 (107) @ Kippax Oval

Goals: Lokan 4, York 3, Dess 3, Bunyan 2, Sharp 2, Love, Posch, Harper, Hector
Best: Turnbull, A.Bennett, Harper, Curtis, J.Bennett, Jansen

Team List
Listed players
#|Name|Games|Goals|Votes|Notes
1|Tim MEMBREY|15|38|5|Kicked a season high 6 goals against Belconnen, the combination of his size and pace proving too much to handle
11|Jed LAMB|8|11|30|(seniors emergency) Strong BOG performance last time, the key man in the midfield who Belconnen will be targeting.
16|Gary ROHAN|4|7|0|Reportedly struggled in the Thursday training session, so his place in the team is not guaranteed.
19|Tony ARMSTRONG|13|3|22|With Biggs out, his run and carry out of defence will be critical.
22|Dean TOWERS|17|29|5|(seniors emergency) Continues to be a goal threat, having kicked at least 2 goals in his last 9 games.
23|Jordan LOCKYER|19|1|13|Finished the H&A season in good form.
27|Daniel ROBINSON|18|9|17|After a bit of a lull midseason, played well against Belco 2 weeks ago.
28|Matthew DICK|15|4|0|Plays mainly in defence but can be swung forward if a spark is needed.
30|Lewis ROBERTS-THOMSON|0|0|0|Joins that illustrious club of "Making your season debut (NEAFL) in a Grand Final".
33|Brandon JACK|11|14|9|(seniors emergency) Has only played one reserves game since Round 14.
35|Sam NAISMITH|2|2|0|Resumed the primary ruck role in his second game back, and managed 2 goals while resting.
36|Alex BROWN|19|3|20|Showed a side of his game not witnessed before hand by drifting down from defence to mark in the forward 50
42|Xavier RICHARDS|16|0|13|Played on Lokan in the semi
44|Jake LLOYD|18|15|54|Continues to tally up the numbers with his hard running and great contested work. Has featured in the best list in 15 of his 18 games.

Changes
In: Rohan, Roberts-Thomson, Jack
Out: Lewis JETTA (seniors)

14 listed players have been named but 2 will have to be cut on the day to meet the competition rules. It will be dependent on the result of the seniors game against Carlton. If the Swans are knocked out, there wouldn't little point in playing LRT and Rohan, and they may also be ineligible anyway. If the Swans do beat the Blues, it will be a tough decision to cut 2 players, especially ones who have played the majority of the NEAFL season. At a guess, Dick looks the most likely given our abundance of defensive players in the team. Naismith may also face the chop given he's only played the 2 games this year but it would be difficult to replace his role in the ruck.

LRT more likely to play forward than back, and even though it's a Grand Final his game time will be carefully managed as with all other long-term injury returnees. He could even possibly come into the game at quarter or half time. Rohan has also played forward during his 4 game stint this year and coupled with Jack junior's return this week and the height of Naismith resting in the goalsquare suddenly the forward line has an increased potency about it. This may release Towers to play further up the ground after spending the second half of the year as a key forward target.

There are unlikely to be other major changes. Lamb, Lloyd, Robinson and Perris will form the core of the midfield brigade while Richards, Lockyer, Brown and Armstrong will be the generals in the defensive 50.

Academy Players/Topups
#|Name|Games|Goals|Votes|Notes
47|Lloyd PERRIS|8|3|5|Equal 3rd possession winner in the semi and chimed in with 2 goals
48|Yarran JAFFER-WILLIAMS|7|4|1|Quick pacy winger/half-forward with an eye for goal.
49|Matthew SPINKS|2|1|0|You can't miss him with his massive afro. Didn't have many touches in the semi but was creative with 1 goal and 2 score assists from his 6 disposals.
50|Stephen WRAY|15|3|1|Experienced topup who did an amazing job as a small defender in the semi against last year's Mulrooney medalist Shane Harris
51|Matt VICIC|1|0|0|Tall, lanky type.
52|Jack HISCOX|1|0|0|Swans Academy and NSW/ACT U-18 RAMS representative
53|Jack CODD-MILLER|0|0|0|Swans Academy and former Hawthorn NSW scholarship holder. Tall.
54|Doug HADDEN|10|2|5|One of the better topups this year, flexible enough to be played forward or back.
58|Will STRATFORD|0|0|0|from Sydney Uni, has kicked 18 goals in 15 games in the Sydney AFL.
59|Thomas HEAD|10|11|1|Tall forward/relief ruck who has impressed with his strong hands and long left foot.
60|Jordan WEIR|17|7|1|The topup who has played the most games. Usually stationed in defence but can play in attack too.


In: Hadden, Hiscox, Jaffer-Williams, Statford, Vicic
Out: Jacob BROOKFIELD, Thomas GREEN, Benjamin HOCTOR, Brad PLUG, Josh ZOPPO



Reserves leading goalkickers

Tim Membrey 38 (15)
Mitch Morton 33 (8)
Dean Towers 29 (17)

For full list: 2013 Goalkickers - RWOwiki (http://www.redandwhiteonline.com/wiki/index.php/2013_Goalkickers)

Reserves leading votegetters

Jake Lloyd 54 (18)
Shane Biggs 33 (17)
Jed Lamb 30 (8)

For full list: 2013 Best Votes - RWOwiki (http://www.redandwhiteonline.com/wiki/index.php/2013_Best_votes)

Belconnen Squad
|||
B:|24. Nick COLLINS|12. Cameron CAMPBELL|16. Chris JANSEN|
HB:|46. Ryan TURNBULL|23. Joshua HEGARTY|35. Jack BAKER|
C:|8. Simon CURTIS|6. James BENNETT|34. Damien HECTOR|
HF:|15. Andrew DESS|26. Dominic BUNYAN|7. Jordan HARPER|
F:|33. Chris YORK|17. Matthew LOKAN|13. Jye BOHM|
Foll:|19. Matthew PORTER|27. Matthew SHARP|11. Lexie BENNETT|
Int:|45. Andrew BROWNING|18. Shane HARRIS|43. Isaac TAYLOR|
|37. John LOVE|49. Logan AUSTIN|44. Patrick DELANEY|
|22. Daniel POSCH


In: Austin, Browning, Delaney
Out:

James Bennett has had a quiet 2 weeks by his 2013 amazing standards, even though he's still managed to lead their team in clearances in that period. He will be geared for a big performance in this big match. The Swans' usual tagger in Harrison Marsh is missing through injury so we'll probably have to go head-to-head with Lloyd, Lamb or Robinson. The other prominent midfielders in their side are Matt Sharp, Jordan Harper and Simon Curtis.

Shane Harris continues to struggle in his comeback, adding 2 behinds to his solitary goal against us in the semi final. He'll still have to be closely watched as he can still kick a big bag of goals if he gets a sniff. Topup Stephen Wray did a fantastic role that day and should get first crack at Harris again.

Player-coach Matthew Lokan was the standout forward for the Magpies in their preliminary final win, kicking 4.4 and seems to be their major avenue to goal at the moment. Despite not being an obvious matchup in size, Richards was solid on Lokan in the semi although the former Collingwood player didn't have much quality ball coming his way that day.

[ugg]

Tips, margin and winner of Jesaulenko Medal for Best On Ground?

[ernie koala]

Tips, margin and winner of Jesaulenko Medal for Best On Ground?

Swans....By 23

BOG....Jed Lamb

[ShockOfHair]

We're playing a team we've beaten by a combined 232 points in the last two occasions.

I'm tipping us.

Best on ground: Membrey
Best hair by a returning seniors veteran: LRT

[707]

With all the injuries from tonights game against Carlton, it will be interesting to see what happens for the ressies GF. Could be a number of players only play a half to keep them fresh in case they are needed in Perth on Saturday.

Is anyone going to the GF who can let us know what players are managed?

[ugg]

With all the injuries from tonights game against Carlton, it will be interesting to see what happens for the ressies GF. Could be a number of players only play a half to keep them fresh in case they are needed in Perth on Saturday.

Is anyone going to the GF who can let us know what players are managed?

Keep an eye on it yourself on the live stream! NEAFL | LIVE WEBCAST | MEDIA VISIONZ - STREAM (http://mediavisionz.com.au/neafl/eastern/)

[707]

Keep an eye on it yourself on the live stream! NEAFL | LIVE WEBCAST | MEDIA VISIONZ - STREAM (http://mediavisionz.com.au/neafl/eastern/)

I'm working today unfortunately so relying on you Ugg to give a run down :-) Thanks for all your great ressie work throughout the year, it's been huge and very much appreciated, cheers

[ugg]

Tweeting from the game

Swans Reserves (swansreserves) on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/swansreserves)

[R-1]

I should also be tweeting a bit, username Arwon and hashtag #neafl.

[liz]

A mission for any RWOers down at Kippax Oval. Can you find out where the commentators on the web stream are sitting, knock on the window and let them know that 59 is Thomas Head, not Brad Plug. You'd think someone might have pointed this out to them after the last game between these two sides that they commentated on, but it seems they are still in the dark.

[undy]

Sounds like the message didn't get through.

[undy]

Aha - message passed on via Swans coaching staff.
Swans up by 3 points just after 1/4 time, LRT and Ronan playing.

[BillyRayCypress]

I wish some of the "experienced" Ch 7 callers listen to these guys commentating. What a pleasant difference when the commentary is not padded out with crap.

[undy]

Sounded like he was having a dig back at Liz then

[BillyRayCypress]

Sounded like he was having a dig back at Liz then

If you hear their broadcast room door open - watch out !!

[ernie koala]

Row Han seems to be going OK !

[ItsAllGoodes]

3/4 time - Swans 10.8.68 Belconnen 4.10.34

[undy]

Good time on ground for lrt, as the commentators say.

[Swansinger]

Congratulations Lewis - Swans' first three-time Premiership player :wink:!
Over to you , ROK and Jubba - match it in two weeks !

[wolftone57]

LRT did very well for a first up effort and controlled the play whenever he got near the ball. He got plenty or it too. Rohan definitely better for the run around the wing and up the ground a bit. Towers dominated more up the ground today. Lambie was good. But the stars for me were Jakie Lloyd, Tony A. and Robbo. Wonderful Membrey had a bit of it too. Brownie, Wray, Perris and Xav all good. BJ got a bit of it too. Thomas Head and Sam Naismith were very good in the ruck and gave us first use of the ball. big Sam is going to be a wonderful ruckman if he can stay fit, he is so agile for a big bloke.

If Tippett doesn't come up then LRT straight in as I think he is ok to go.

- - - Updated - - -

LRT did very well for a first up effort and controlled the play whenever he got near the ball. He got plenty or it too. Rohan definitely better for the run around the wing and up the ground a bit. Towers dominated more up the ground today. Lambie was good. But the stars for me were Jakie Lloyd, Tony A. and Robbo. Wonderful Membrey had a bit of it too. Brownie, Wray, Perris and Xav all good. BJ got a bit of it too. Thomas Head and Sam Naismith were very good in the ruck and gave us first use of the ball. big Sam is going to be a wonderful ruckman if he can stay fit, he is so agile for a big bloke.

If Tippett doesn't come up then LRT straight in as I think he is ok to go.

[dimelb]

Thank you everyone for your comments and tweets. Good to hear the boys do so well.
And a special thank you to ugg for the work he puts in and for giving us the benefit of his vast knowledge of all things ressie, not to mention his take on the seniors.

[ugg]

Not over yet there's the cross conference grand final next week against Brissie

[wolftone57]

Not over yet there's the cross conference grand final next week against Brissie

But we get to play more listed players in that, so do they so no advantage. It will be interesting who plays for each team. What has happened to Morto?

[aardvark]

901

A rough looking bunch.

[ugg]

But we get to play more listed players in that, so do they so no advantage. It will be interesting who plays for each team. What has happened to Morto?
There were no restrictions today all 14 listed players played

[ugg]

Best Players: T. Armstrong, J. Lamb, J. Lockyer, J. Lloyd, D. Towers, S. Wray

[DK_]

Thank you everyone for your comments and tweets. Good to hear the boys do so well.
And a special thank you to ugg for the work he puts in and for giving us the benefit of his vast knowledge of all things ressie, not to mention his take on the seniors.

I'll second that! Great work Ugg!

[Ludwig]

Best Players: T. Armstrong, J. Lamb, J. Lockyer, J. Lloyd, D. Towers, S. Wray

Seems to help getting listed in the Best if your initials are J.L.

[ugg]

Seems to help getting listed in the Best if your initials are J.L.
John Longmire? Hmmmmmm

[Meg]

John Longmire? Hmmmmmm

Well I read John Longmire was there ( as well as Adam Goodes) so perhaps he did pull on his footy shorts again and take to the field? At least he got a personal view of LRT's return. Which might be handy before this season is done.

[ugg]

Yep he was there as was Andrew Ireland

[ugg]

Just back from Canberra, I can tell you the trip back up the highway flies past much quicker when you're celebrating a win rather than a loss. I'll post a more detailed report soon but I just wanted to say the match was built upon the solid work of the back six. At the beginning of the year with the two previous key defenders in Campbell Heath and Jack Lynch having left the club, the defence at times looked shaky and disjointed. But as season has progressed, spending more time playing together has resulted in a major improvement up to the point where today their excellent one on one work was complemented by great support play by their fellow defenders. Belconnen really struggled to get many clear chances at goal, save for some incredible goals by Shane Harris. Even then, his direct opponent Stephen Wray played well again on him, reprising the same role he did on Harris 2 weeks ago at Blacktown.

Armstrong was clearly the best on ground for mine, his work in congestion early on was inspirational and vital to steady the expected physical onslaught from Belconnen, and his kicking was unerringly accurate both coming out of defence and delivering some sizzling passes on a platter for his forwards to run onto. Also clearly his best game of the year and a great time to put together such a performance but he's unlikely to get back into the seniors due to the good performance by Biggs on Saturday. Lamb was also terrific early on, his powerful surging runs in traffic were a real highlight and although he wasn't as prominent later on, he really set up the win with his leadership against a tough opposition midfield. Naismith was surprisingly agile for a guy his size, and his sometimes fanciful and exuberant taps in the first quarter were toned down after being instructed to by Crouch at quarter time. I would definitely like to see him get another season, preferably an injury free one, to see how his game could develop under the tutelage of the coaches, Taubert in particular.

As for the injury returnees:
LRT - Started deep, kicked the first goal, was involved in plenty of play in and around the forward 50 area. I thought he moved very well and at times did drift back to help in defence. In the second half, he started on that slightly forward of centre wing position that Jesse has made his own in the seniors. His 2 goals were 2 tough set shots from tight angles and he also laid off a few score assists. One of his last plays was in the fourth quarter with a double one-two with Lloyd Perris (who btw will be a very, very good player for us) on the wing and although he had space he couldn't run any more and fed it back to Perris. Taken off and mothballed soon after that. Would that performance be enough for a run around Subi? Hard to say, but if he was asked to park his butt down in the goalsquare against the resting ruckman I guess it could work.

Rohan - also played forward, didn't see a lot of the ball, had a handful of almost-maybe marks that didn't quite come off and a brilliant checkside goal from some distance out. Had one of his calves iced at three quarter time and I don't think he played any of the last quarter.

[ugg]

BTW, it looks as though the number of listed players allowed in a finals match has been increased from 12 last year to 14 this year. All 25 warmed up, took the team photo and stood for the national anthem but then when the game started 3 topups in Hadden, Codd-Miller and Stratford were the ones cut.

[ugg]

The Cross-Conference Title has been set for Saturday at Aspley in Queensland. It looks like we will be fielding a weakened team due to some of today's team replacing injured players and possibly Teddy. Perhaps the coaches can drag Mitch Morton out for one last run out in the red and white.

[liz]

The Cross-Conference Title has been set for Saturday at Aspley in Queensland. It looks like we will be fielding a weakened team due to some of today's team replacing injured players and possibly Teddy. Perhaps the coaches can drag Mitch Morton out for one last run out in the red and white.

Not to mention a full quotient of senior emergencies likely to be taken over to Perth.

[ugg]

Not to mention a full quotient of senior emergencies likely to be taken over to Perth.

Just read on the Brisbane BF board that a lot of players are due start holidays today so they might have a weakened side too.

[ugg]

Belconnen outclassed in NEAFL decider (http://www.canberratimes.com.au/afl/belconnen-outclassed-in-neafl-decider-20130915-2tt3x.html)

[707]

Not to mention a full quotient of senior emergencies likely to be taken over to Perth.

Yep, reckon they will take plenty of back ups to Perth, just in case....... We'll get torched in Quensland.

[ugg]

NEAFL title special for Rohan and LRT (http://www.canberratimes.com.au/afl/neafl-title-special-for-rohan-and-lrt-20130915-2tt4v.html)


Having recovered from an horrific broken leg, Gary Rohan didn?t care his first ever premiership was in the NEAFL eastern conference and not the AFL as he now plays like ??every game?s my last??.
And his Sydney Swans teammate Lewis Roberts-Thomson rated his NEAFL flag alongside his two AFL ones and declared his knee was fully recovered and he was ready to return for the AFL preliminary final against Fremantle in Perth next week.


Read more: NEAFL title special for Rohan and LRT (http://www.canberratimes.com.au/afl/neafl-title-special-for-rohan-and-lrt-20130915-2tt4v.html#ixzz2f0r0g6lM)

[mcs]

I thought that LRT did really well yesterday - for a guy that has not played any football for most of the season, he really did do a decent job. If he pulls up ok, I'd have no problem seeing him back in the seniors if Tippett is out.


And thanks Ugg for your wonderful reserves reporting - I must make myself more proactive and ensure I get to more ressies games next year!

[ugg]

Some great photos here

http://t.co/7bEvdD5WYL

[R-1]

Yep he was there as was Andrew Ireland

Did you happen to see who the player with Goodes was? I thought it might have been Morton.

[ugg]

Did you happen to see who the player with Goodes was? I thought it might have been Morton.

I didn't see Morton but of course that doesn't mean he wasn't there. Was he wearing thick black glasses? If so that was Morton.

I did see Harry Marsh

[Jewels]

I didn't see Morton but of course that doesn't mean he wasn't there. Was he wearing thick black glasses? If so that was Morton.

I did see Harry Marsh
Could very well be Mitch, my daughter sees him at work and says he wears heavy black glasses all the time.

[ugg]

Sorry I meant that Mitch is clearly identifiable with his glasses, not that I saw a man with those glasses yesterday.

[R-1]

I didn't see Morton but of course that doesn't mean he wasn't there. Was he wearing thick black glasses? If so that was Morton.

I did see Harry Marsh

Yep you're right, checked the photo and he's the guy

[Xie Shan]

I don't normally take that many pictures at the footy but with the sun shining and being able to get closer to the action than normal I managed to snap a few shots on Sunday afternoon. For more pics from the day, visit www.facebook.com/swansreserves

(Edit: I am told that I can only have a maximum of 10 tags per post. Handy to know!)

The teams line up for the anthem
[IMG]https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/03-P1060756.JPG

The Swans players huddle before the opening bounce
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/04-P1060760.JPG

The Kippax Oval surface looking in great condition
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/05-P1060762.JPG

The players contest a boundary throw-in
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/06-P1060764.JPG

L-R-T! L-R-T!
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/07-P1060768.JPG

Three quarter time huddle
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/10-P1060774.JPG

Top-up player Yarran Jaffer-Williams (#48)
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/12-P1060779.JPG

Tony Armstrong receiving the Alex Jesaulenko Medal from Tom Harley
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/16-P1060790.JPG

Crouchy
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/18-P1060801.JPG

Smiles all round!
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12741919/Swans/2013%20NEAFL%20Grand%20Final/15-P1060802.JPG

[wolftone57]

The stream was not particularly good quality but I was able to watch the game. But now I have watched the replay which is available on; NEAFL Eastern - Final Sydney Swans v Belconnen Magpies - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JEC0Wj1OxM)

There were some very good signs to come out of this game;

1. Tony Armstrong has improved his defensive pressure and is an elite deliverer of the ball. The last we knew but he has even improved on early in the season.

2. Jed Lamb can get heaps of ball in the mids if allowed some time there.

3. Dan Robinson has beautiful balance and elite delivery. His role in the mids is both inside and out and he is deadly in an outside capacity. He is a very strong mark and will be a great player as he matures.

4. Young Jake Lloyd needs to bulk up a bit but he is really fast, as fast as Brandon but doesn't even look as though he is moving his running style is that economical. He is also a great tackle and always puts pressure on an opponent, he is also not afraid of the big blokes. The kid is a sensational talent.

5. Dean Towers is starting to show why he is a number one draft pick. He is such a balanced footballer. I think he is very close to selection. Great lead and hardly ever, if ever, beaten in the marking contest.

6. Sammy Naismith is 206cm and incredibly mobile. Some of his tap work was reminiscent of Polly Farmer, so precise and clever. One for the future.

7. Alex Brown and Xavier Richards are developing a big partnership in the backline. Jordan Lockyer was also good back there. Matty Dick gets the ball so easily and has pace to burn and is a big lad BUT every second delivery is a bummer, pity.

8. Tim Membrey will be a good forward next year.

9. Lloyd Perris and young Jack Hiscox are both really good prospects. Hiscox is in the under 18 program and he only looks about 16 or 17 and has a lot of developing to do. Perris is a ready made talent who is a ball magnet. both kids showed plenty.

10. LRT WILL play against Freo. Not sure about Gazza though,. He did some really good things and got a lot more of the ball, at one stage he was pushed back to defence and ran off really well.

Congratulations to the development staff, players and all in the footy department for their GF win. Good on you Crouchy you have done a great job.

[BillyRayCypress]

Thanks for the photo's Xie Shan. Great subject matter and quality.

[Ludwig]

4. Young Jake Lloyd needs to bulk up a bit but he is really fast, as fast as Brandon but doesn't even look as though he is moving his running style is that economical. He is also a great tackle and always puts pressure on an opponent, he is also not afraid of the big blokes. The kid is a sensational talent.
.

As you have probably noted, I am also gushing over Jake Lloyd. I have only seen him on several of the NEAFL streams, but every time he impresses. Is very consistent and seems to run all day. And looks to be a leader too.

Robinson looks bigger than his listed 183 cm 84 kgs. and Brown also looks taller than his listed 191 cm. Anyone know if they've grown a bit this year?

[Swansongster]

Thanks for the photo's Xie Shan. Great subject matter and quality.

+1

[aardvark]

As you have probably noted, I am also gushing over Jake Lloyd.

Poor Jake:frown

[southsideswan]

I stated this a few times but one of the reasons I started following afl was because someone I know had something to do with Jake Lloyds development.. so followed pre season training and then NAB cup and now thru season. He has received 57 B&F pts for year. Next best in mid 30's. He came to the club extremely fit and has improved. His consistency is the big plus. My concern .. and has been especially in later part of season is that he has seen 4 players go past him on the rookie list. You can put justification in why this is the case but as a young guy living a long way from home it may seem hard. Also I have seem all the public comments by the coaching staff and his name has been ignored or only fleetingly mentioned. Although I have no knowledge of a problem it does nag at me that maybe there is.

On the size issue I think his strength will stand him in good stead in the seniors. It is sometimes hard to pick up on reports but appears he has a highish strike rate with his goals and appears to be mostly from 50 out.

[ugg]

My concern .. and has been especially in later part of season is that he has seen 4 players go past him on the rookie list. You can put justification in why this is the case...

I will try!

The 4 players who have been elevated (Rampe, B.Jack, X.Richards and Biggs) don't play the same position as Lloyd. For all our injuries this year, our midfield core has remained intact (touch wood!) and so Lloyd hasn't really had an opportunity in this regard.

[Ludwig]

I stated this a few times but one of the reasons I started following afl was because someone I know had something to do with Jake Lloyds development.. so followed pre season training and then NAB cup and now thru season. He has received 57 B&F pts for year. Next best in mid 30's. He came to the club extremely fit and has improved. His consistency is the big plus. My concern .. and has been especially in later part of season is that he has seen 4 players go past him on the rookie list. You can put justification in why this is the case but as a young guy living a long way from home it may seem hard. Also I have seem all the public comments by the coaching staff and his name has been ignored or only fleetingly mentioned. Although I have no knowledge of a problem it does nag at me that maybe there is.

On the size issue I think his strength will stand him in good stead in the seniors. It is sometimes hard to pick up on reports but appears he has a highish strike rate with his goals and appears to be mostly from 50 out.

I don't have any inside information, but perhaps others like BJ have been promoted off the rookie list before Jake because of the speed factor. Lloyd is quick enough, but with the loss of Jetta, Rohan and Goodes, we were probably looking for that big burst of speed from the sub spot rather than another consistent hard running midfielder, of which we have plenty. Those spots went to Mitchell and Lamb, which is understandable.

I think Lloyd already looks a better player than Lamb and should move up in the pecking order next year. Nothing wrong with having a development year. Not sure if he will be promoted to the senior list, but would be shocked if he is not given another contract. He made the NEAFL team of the year and is clearly leading the ressies best list, so it seems that everyone recognises his talent.

[southsideswan]

All 4 that have been promoted have done very well ..and yes also need to be in needed position at right time. If he is to have a long career a slow transition will be a big benefit. This is sometimes hard to understand at that age. I just hope the support is there from the Club. I would hate to see him think a better option is to be closer to home and playing top grade.

[ugg]

My first visit to Kippax Oval and I was quite impressed with the ground, it's certainly a step or two up from your standard community oval. The clubhouse (The Nest) stands on one wing with quite a few rows of seats in front of it stretching all the way to the end of one pocket. On the other side, a few temporary stands were erected for the day with the rest the standing areas. The crowd as you would expect was mostly pro-Belconnen, although the area where I was sitting was definitely the Swans area (which I only happened to stumble across serendipitously) and there was also vocal support near the scoreboard pocket from some Ainslie players/officials who had stayed behind to watch after their reserves team had won their premiership.

However the decibel level of the crowd paled into comparison to the rabid cheering at Manuka for Queanbeyan last year, which was so fierce and loud that it acted as an extra boost to the home team that day. I'm not sure whether it was the fact that the Swans kicked the first 3 goals of the game that deflated the crowd somewhat, but it was a lot tamer than I was expecting.

Overall a great team performance as highlighted by the spread of 12 goalkickers, there were no passengers amongst the listed players and the topups as has been the case all year all played their part with solid contributions. The scoreboard would seem to indicate a very one sided contest but in fact Belconnen had plenty of the ball, probably got their hands to the football first more and collected enough forward 50 entries to beat us but full credit to the defenders who never relented from the first bounce to the final siren and made the Belconnen forward look impotent.

Perhaps a question mark hangs over the standard of the competition in comparison to last year's model, but given the way some of the reserves players have taken their chances in the seniors this year, it is undeniable how well coached this team has been and how well it's working to serve the main purpose of training the youngsters to play the Swans way.

First Quarter
The opening minutes were fiercely fought with both sides feeling each other out, the Swans had more of the ball but the Belconnen defence held firm. Down the other end, the Swans back six were under early pressure too due were slick enough with their in-close handballs to run themselves out of trouble. Lewis Roberts-Thomson was moving freely patrolling the 50m arc and he became the first goalkicker when he converted a set shot inside 50, the recipient of a short Dean Towers pass. Tall topup Matthew Vicic kicked the next goal when he anticipated a poorly executed Belconnen pass across the goal face, making no mistake from his set shot 15m out. Tony Armstrong drifted forward and kicked another long set shot, this time thanks to a square up by Gary Rohan.

Belconnen were struggling to retain possession inside their forward 50, with our three tall defenders Xavier Richards (on Matthew Lokan), Jordan Lockyer and Alex Brown not only beating their individual opponents but working well as a unit to clear the ball from the danger areas. It took a mistake by Richards for Belconnen to get their first major, the tall defender overcommitting to a kick that was always falling short, bouncing pass him at ground level, for Lokan to gather and hand off to Shane Harris in the goal square for an easy finish. Harris then kicked his second, and the goal of the day when he was corralled into the left forward pocket but managed to screw a shot over his shoulder, and despite being the completely wrong angle for a left footer, managed to split the big sticks.

At the quarter time huddle, coach Jared Crouch was relatively happy with the performance but he wanted his charges to stick to the simple options, believing they had overelaborated on a few occasions. In particular he wanted his ruckman Sam Naismith to hit to the feet of his onballers rather some of the outlandish flicks around the back that he had been attempting. He also stressed the importance of playing the territory game.

Sydney Swans Reserves 3.1 (19) Belconnen 2.3 (15)

Second Quarter
Rohan opened the scoring in the second half, after dropping a tough high ball looking into the sun, some smart handballs from Brandon Jack and Lloyd Perris allowed Rohan enough time to attempt an outside of the boot shot successfully. Harris hit back yet again for the Magpies with a smart crumbing job from a Richards spoil. The Swans pushed their lead back out to 15 points from consecutive set shots. The first was awarded to Tim Membrey, thanks to a fine low, direct Tony Armstrong pass after Naismith had been infringed at the boundary throw-in. The second was to Jake Lloyd, who had marked unopposed right on 50m arc after Daniel Robinson had been awarded a contentious holding the ball free kick. Topup Jack Hiscox then finished off a brilliant chain of handballs involving speedsters Yarran Jaffer-Williams, Matthew Spinks and Jack with a 40m snap. The Swans were then clearly in the ascendancy but failed to fully captalise on their dominance, kicking 5 behinds to end the quarter - 3 to Membrey and 1 each to Towers and Robinson. All but one were set shots and the Swans would go into the main break hoping their wastefulness wouldn't allow the Magpies back into game in the second half.

Sydney Swans Reserves 7.6 (48) Belconnen 3.5 (23)

Third Quarter
LRT moved slightly further up the ground, starting the centre bounces on the wing slightly forward of centre, a position Swans fans would recognise as the Jesse White spot. Membrey made amends for his earlier misses by hooking home from 35m after LRT had cleanly collected a stray Thomas Head set shot. The Swans continued to comfortably deal the Belconnen forays forward, with their long bombing and wayward kicking playing right into the hands of our defenders, in particular Richards who read the fall of the incoming ball well. The Magpies may have had a few entries during this quarter, but the Swans backmen were quick to deal with the danger and managed to rush 5 behinds as a result.

Jack kicked his first goal of the day after Head's pack-crashing leap from Perris' speculative high ball brought the ball to ground, allowing Rohan to gather with clean hands and feed BJ for a clear shot on his left. Towers provided the mark of the day highlight with an early leap, sit on Rohan's shoulders but fell into the classic trap of playing on with the adrenaline coursing through his veins and was easily tackled and pinged for HTB. Harris continued to keep his team in the hunt, with his fourth goal resulting from a long lead and mark deep in the left forward pocket. Robinson kicked an important goal late in the quarter after a smart extraction by Spinks for the Swans to hold a commanding 34 point lead going into the last quarter.

Crouch again was calm and collected in the huddle, allowing his line coaches to address their respective groups while he considered the matchups with his assistants, including George Stone. He singled out topup Stephen Wray for special praise for his job on Harris, even though the small forward had kicked 4 goals up to that point, Wray was still instrumental in preventing Harris from adding more to that total. He re-iterated the need to keep going and play out the match in the same committed manner they had shown in the match so far.

Rohan had one of his calves iced at three quarter time and although he was moving around during the huddle, he didn't play any more part in the match.

Sydney Swans Reserves 10.8 (68) Belconnen 4.10 (34)

Fourth Quarter
Andrew Dess kicked the all-important goal to give Belco a sniff, a rare mark deep in the forward 50 and smart conversion from an acute angle. However, goals to Towers, LRT's second from a set shot and Membrey's 3rd quickly put an end to the locals' hopes. LRT's subsequent withdrawal from the game was more likely co-incidental than planned, but that seemed to signify that the fight was up and both teams were content to play out the game with the result beyond doubt. Head added his name to the growing list of goalkickers with his trademark big leap. Naismith also joined the party after Towers' snap towards goal was partially smothered with the Sherrin fortuitously bouncing into his hands allowing Naismith to run unimpeded into the open goal square. Dess added another goal as a small consolation.

Sydney Swans Reserves 15.11 (101) Belconnen 6.13 (49)

Swans Goals: Membrey 3, Roberts-Thomson 2, Rohan, Armstrong, Towers, Robinson, Jack, Naismith, Lloyd, Vicic, Hiscox, Head
Belconnen Goals: Harris 4, Dess 2

Swans Best: Armstrong, Lamb, Lockyer, Lloyd, Towers, Wray
Belconnen Best: Curtis, A.Bennett, Harper, Jansen, Collins, Turnbull


Tim Membrey (#1) - Played at full forward, a return of three goals, five behinds was a little disappointing given his usual accuracy from set shots. Can tend to drop a few marks that he probably should hang onto, but always chases and tackles well without the ball. Probably lacks the bulk to hold down a key forward post in the seniors, but given how well he moves will be a chance to be a roaming tall target in the mould of ROK of the mid to late 2000s.
Jed Lamb (#11) - Loved his drive from the middle, low centre of gravity allows him to power through some tacklers and also his direct kicking to the forwards. He started well, fell into a quiet period in the 2nd quarter, but then came to the fore again in the 2nd half with his physicality. Did a lot of work off the ball as well with his tackling especially effective.
Gary Rohan (#16) - Forward line duties, didn't see much of the ball but was clean when he had possession and set up a few goals to go along with his clever goal.
Tony Armstrong (#19) - Clearly best on ground with plenty of possessions. When the game was still up for grabs early on, he was cool under pressure and was instrumental in some good clearance work from the back half which was very encouraging to see as he usually tends to struggle with his kicking under pressure. Further up the field, was on the end of many handball receives with his pinpoint kicking a highlight with most deliveries inside 50 resulting in marks. Also, special mention must be given to his strong tackling today, another area of his game that has been noted as a weakness.
Dean Towers (#22) - LRT's presence released him to play a little further up the ground so that he was running into the inside 50 zone rather than leading out of it or was the player delivering said balls into the forward line. Enjoyed the freedom that this role provides and really used his pace on a few occurrences to maximum effect.
Jordan Lockyer (#23) - Another commanding performance at CHB, his improvement in the 2nd half of the season has been noticeable. Comfortable in using his body now to out manoeuvre his opponent and take the mark whereas he looked lost in such a role earlier in the year. With the defensive aspects of play under control, he was able to use his good disposal skills becoming one of the Swans' main distributors from the backline.
Daniel Robinson (#27) - Spent a lot of time in a run-with role (sharing it with others) on James Bennett rather than a hard tag which allowed him to win his fair share of the ball. Bennett was one of their better players but didn't exert the sort of dominant influence that he is renowned for.
Matthew Dick (#28) - Calm presence down back whose neat, controlled kicking style was a good option for the rebounding defence. Provided some run with his pace but ball use especially the handball needs work.
Lewis Roberts-Thomson (#30) - Played predominantly as a forward, first half more as CHF and in the second half roamed a little further up the ground. The Hyphen moved freely, took many solid marks, his two set shots from wide angles were accurate and he set up a few more scores with smart handballs.
Brandon Jack (#33) - A bit like Rohan, didn't rack up many disposals but was potent when he did with a few scoring opportunities resulting from his involvement. I especially liked the way he put his body on the line a few times despite a much bigger and sturdier Magpie coming at him from the opposite direction.
Sam Naismith (#35) - Haven't seen too much of Naismith so I'm still learning things about him. From this game I learnt he's an athletic specimen for his size, he covers the ground reasonably well and has good instincts. He is still of course very raw, having missed a lot of the season and not played much football prior to that. I'm waiting in anticipation to see what he can do with an extended run in the team.
Alex Brown (#36) - Utility defender, sometimes covered a tall sometimes a smaller forward, worked well with the other defenders to clear the ball when in danger.
Xavier Richards (#42) - Played mainly on the dangerous Matty Lokan, and used his strengths very well. Lokan is not as tall as Richards' usual opponents, but is a smart, strong player who knows how to position his body to gain an advantage. Richards was smart though in not engaging in wrestling contests, but knowing he had good closing speed and good anticipation skills, played a little off Lokan but close enough to spoil any incoming balls.
Jake Lloyd (#44) - Not as prolific as he has been but with his constant running up and down the field collected enough possessions to be an influential player in the game. His goal was kicked right on the 50m arc and easily sailed pass the goal umpire's head.


Lloyd Perris (#47) - Stunning game from the youngster, if you had rocked up to the match without any idea of which players were on our list and which were topups, you would definitely have classed Perris in the former category. That is to say he played with a maturity that belies his young age. He found plenty of the ball running through the midfield, but more importantly his ball use was very classy. He had the vision, calmness and skill to clear the ball effectively under pressure but also not afraid to put his body over the line when required. Being one of our last (THE last?) NSW scholarship holder we have the opportunity to draft him on the main list with one of our last picks in the draft and I have little doubt that the Swans will do so.
Yarran Jaffer-Williams (#48) - Outside runner whose pace allowed him to break clear with the ball from congested areas. Kicking skills are okay but decision making can improve.
Matthew Spinks (#49) - Lively type who consistently puts in good efforts and is a hard gut runner.
Stephen Wray (#50) - Great role as a shutdown small defender on Harris, who despite kicking 4 goals had to fight hard and had some luck in some of those goals.
Matthew Vicic (#51) - Smart play to intercept the Belconnen kick for his goal but probably didn't see much game time until late in the game when players were being rested.
Jack Hiscox (#52) - Half-forward / wing role, tidy player who won some outside ball. Snapped a skilful goal from 40m out.
Thomas Head (#59) - Another solid display from Head whose giant leap and strong hands have made him been a favourite topup of mine. Very athletic type who relieved Naismith in the ruck.
Jordan Weir (#60) - After playing the majority of the year in defence, found himself in the forward line for this game but unfortunately didn't have much of an impact.

A little disappointed and surprised that Doug Hadden (#54) was one of the topups left out as the 3 emergencies having played well in previous games.

[swanwolf]

Thank you for that comprehensive report, Mr Ugg, and for all your efforts this year. It's really appreciated by those of us unlucky enough not to see more of the reserves live. Swans have had a great run recycling players from other teams but there's a certain satisfaction in nurturing your own talent.

[Swansongster]

Thank you for that comprehensive report, Mr Ugg, and for all your efforts this year. It's really appreciated by those of us unlucky enough not to see more of the reserves live. Swans have had a great run recycling players from other teams but there's a certain satisfaction in nurturing your own talent.

+1

Ugg = All Australian Swans fan correspondent.

[Ludwig]

+2 Ugg

The Herald Sun should sack Robinson and Ralph and hire you. Fantastic stuff.

[dimelb]

Thanks ugg, terrific coverage.

[liz]

I'll third that. Thanks Ugg for your magnificent work previewing and reporting on the reserves.

I wouldn't want to be in the shoes of the Swans list manager right now. He (or she) has some serious headaches coming up. Each and every one of our rookie listed players has an incredibly strong case to be kept on next year, our second year players have shown glimpses, especially towards the end of the year, that they are worth persevering with and last year's ND draftees are all contracted, regardless of what they have shown. Add to that the fact that our fringier type players (including those who've played some senior footy this year) are mostly all contracted for next year and it's hard to see what gives.

Even looking at the local lads who've played as toppies this year, there are a few likely candidates. Aside from Perris, I think YJW might be worth a look as a different kind of player to those currently on our list. And while I don't think he is eligible as an Academy player, Thomas 'Plug' Head is well worth thinking about.

[unconfuseme]

... spot on liz!

Almost a case of recruiting too well!

Add to that the flow of talented youngsters starting to emerge from the academy program as it matures ... this has been high lighted already by the ease of their GF win last week, compared to the struggles when they got there the 2 previous years. And achieved with a substantial injury list.

The recent GWS game at ANZ also showed where our recruitment and development sat ... GWS fielded 17 listed players where we had 10 (I think?) and the academy and top up players beat their "paid" opponents all over the park in a dominant win.

They will find it harder this week in Brisbane, but yet again, a good barometer ...

[ugg]

... spot on liz!

Almost a case of recruiting too well!

Add to that the flow of talented youngsters starting to emerge from the academy program as it matures ... this has been high lighted already by the ease of their GF win last week, compared to the struggles when they got there the 2 previous years. And achieved with a substantial injury list.

The recent GWS game at ANZ also showed where our recruitment and development sat ... GWS fielded 17 listed players where we had 10 (I think?) and the academy and top up players beat their "paid" opponents all over the park in a dominant win.

They will find it harder this week in Brisbane, but yet again, a good barometer ...

12 against 17 according to the wiki.

[unconfuseme]

Cheers ugg, I knew you'd know :clap:... your worth more money ... with Roosy gone, you should get your manager onto that!:greedy_dollars:

[ugg]

Stats

http://neafl.com.au/fileadmin/user_upload/Documents/Player_Statistics/Finals_Week_Four.pdf

Disposals
Armstrong 35
Lamb 24
Lockyer 28
Lloyd 27
Towers 16
Wray 8

Perris 30
Membrey 3goals5behinds
LRT 18 10 marks