Round 12: Swans v Giants in Perth

[ugg]

No late changes

Starting benches
Stephens Foot Blakey O’Riordan
Ward Hutchesson Finlayson Perryman

[Foreign Legion]

Pavlich saying its a bit wet - will be interested to see if our young quickish blokes can have an influence. A big ask for sure.

[longmile]

Not confident at all, Giants by 40+

[Mel_C]

I was telling my dad that Foot is wearing number 16. He asked who wore it before him and I was stumped. I had to Google it and it was Rohan! How quickly I forgot about him 😯.

[waswan]

Blakey warming up with Mids

- - - Updated - - -

Thurlow too

[Mel_C]

Papley has his knee strapped and he looks to be limping ☹. He was chatting to the physio.

[Foreign Legion]

I will closely watch Dawson and Rowbottom - they stood up last week and hope they do again.

[Bexl]

Blakey warming up with Mids


- - - Updated - - -

Thurlow too
Watching Blakey in the warm up pick kicking for goal his ball drop really looks all over the place and he just half kicks the ball I don't like the look of it. I'm no expert but He better get better.

[longmile]

Papley has his knee strapped and he looks to be limping ☹. He was chatting to the physio.

Seems to be running fine

[Melbourne_Blood]

That was awesome


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[Foreign Legion]

Great goal. Good work from a few players there.

[Markwebbos]

Rubbish Rowbottom goes OK. Paps knee seems OK too

[Daisi]

Lots of swans fans seem to be there...Very nice to see the red and white. Looking forward to seeing how the boys go tonight.

[stevoswan]

36 to 14 disposals so far.....sheese! Well.....good start at least.

[Markwebbos]

Blakey going OK so far closer to the action. That flick from Paps to him was a thing of beauty

[longmile]

Looking great so far. Sinclair dominating the ruck

[Melbourne_Blood]

Blakey going OK so far closer to the action. That flick from Paps to him was a thing of beauty

Yep lizard has looked good so far, just needs to do a little better with those kicks inside 50. The Flick from paps was worth a first round pick.


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[goswannies]

Papley has his knee strapped and he looks to be limping ☹. He was chatting to the physio.

Don’t read too much into that, from my experience, everyone likes talking to the physio ;)

[Markwebbos]

Swans mids destroying Giants so far

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very calm tackle by Stephens then

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Cmon Zac

[Melbourne_Blood]

Great start. Parker come to play. Thurlow has started very well also. Nice from Dawson and Foot there .


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[Markwebbos]

I am so impressed with how the whole team is playing. I know its early days but ...

[Daisi]

Rowbottom impressive, great play from Foot , he must have wanted that goal, but unselfishly gave it off. Says a lot for him, he's a keeper.

[Markwebbos]

Can we all please agree now on RWO that Rowbottom is a seriously exciting young player?

[Melbourne_Blood]

Wow. I’m gobsmacked


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[longmile]

Not confident at all, Giants by 40+

Man I look like a dick now. We're looking amazing

[Markwebbos]

Wow. I’m gobsmacked

Very pleasantly surprised

[Melbourne_Blood]

Dunstall makes a fair point, this side needs to play on a bigger ground more often.


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[Markwebbos]

Dunstall rightly says Swans need to stop playing at the SCG - this bigger ground really does suit us

[Markwebbos]

Disposals 101-54, Clearances 16-6, but we are losing inside 50s 9-11, wtf?

[Legs Akimbo]

Rowbottom achieved beast mode in that quarter. Amazing. That was enjoyable.

[Ralph Dawg]

I've mentioned the Lions and their recruitment of Lachie Neale a few times. Rowbottom is playing like Neale tonight - I'm hopeful we have found the young midfielder to build our next premiership threatening team around. What a quarter!

[Markwebbos]

Rowbottom huge in that quarter. The passage of play that led to the Dawson goal. And then his clearance from the bottom of a pack shortly afterwards. He's got 4 clearances in one quarter

[goswannies]

Earlier in the quarter one of the commentators said if we win, we aren’t out of finals contention.
Dunstall rightly says Swans need to stop playing at the SCG - this bigger ground really does suit us
Another conspiracy against us since they’re shifting the grand final away from the vast expanses of the MCG.

[Ralph Dawg]

Parker, Dawson, Papley excellent. Defence holding well. Blakey looking better. Fingers crossed we can keep it up for 3 quarters.

[Mel_C]

I will closely watch Dawson and Rowbottom - they stood up last week and hope they do again.
They sure have 😊.

[Markwebbos]

Happy to accept the resignations of all the Rowbottom-sceptics (henceforth known as Heretics) on RWO.

[Foreign Legion]

Huge quarter. So many players will have learnt from what it takes.

As I said earlier - Dawson and Rowbottom have stepped up again with a very good effort last week too.

Parker definitely playing well. Rampe is a freak.

- - - Updated - - -


They sure have 😊.

Thanks Mel_C

It is critical those two leap up to the next level - which looks like they are at now.

[longmile]

Whoever it was that said Rowbottom wasn't going to be good player, how wrong you were

[Mel_C]

Haha Sweet Caroline is even at Optus Stadium!

[i'm-uninformed2]

Whoever the clever dick was that conjured the pick shenanigans we used to get James Rowbottom deserves a pay rise

[Markwebbos]

Dawson's third mark inside 50?

[Melbourne_Blood]

Whoever the clever dick was that conjured the pick shenanigans we used to get James Rowbottom deserves a pay rise

Yep triple it and give him a nice ride, that man is a genius


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[Markwebbos]

Now Blakey is kicking goals!

[Swannette]

Who has kidnapped the swans and replaced them with this team?


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[Ralph Dawg]

Is Blakey back?

[AB Swannie]

Anyone who thinks Longmire has lost this group needs to watch the start of this game. Who knows what will happen from here on in but every player is just putting in.

[Melbourne_Blood]

Is Blakey back?

Yep it’s offical. Should not have doubted the lizard king. Praise be.


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[AB Swannie]

Is Blakey back?

He’s a serious talent, Ralph. He’s been playing a difficult role in his second year with little team training. He is having a great game today and will have plenty more good ones in the red and white.

[Ralph Dawg]

Yep it’s offical. Should not have doubted the lizard king. Praise be.


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The Lizard build is not really key forward material. Think of a lizard running and it's definitely more on the wing.

[longmile]

Giants are playing with intent but there set ups are atrocious

[Markwebbos]

Who has kidnapped the swans and replaced them with this team?

I was going to say exactly that about Blakey

[longmile]

Of course they get a soft free kick goal

[Daisi]

Giants are going to grind this out and try to wear out our young players. Is Sinclair injured?

[Mel_C]

2 weeks in a row a very very very soft free against Rampe. Cost us a goal both times.

[Ralph Dawg]

If it was Neafl, Foot would've run on for a goal from 50

[Markwebbos]

Blakey reborn.

- - - Updated - - -

Cmon Blakey.

[Daisi]

Good news that Blakey seems to have recovered some confidence...

[Markwebbos]

He's really got his mojo back! BOG right now according to the ranking points

[Scottee]

Clearly the Nick Blakey that was playing before tonight was an imposter.

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[Melbourne_Blood]

He's really got his mojo back!

He should play one in 4 games in the ressies if the return result is this.


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[longmile]

O'Riordan proving me wrong and Sinclair leveling up

[Ralph Dawg]

15 my arse

[Markwebbos]

He should play one in 4 games in the ressies if the return result is this.

Taking out of the forward line has helped too

- - - Updated - - -


O'Riordan proving me wrong and Sinclair leveling up

The whole team has lifted

[Mel_C]

These umpires need a measuring tape. They can't measure 15 metres.

[Daisi]

Love the crowd booing the Giants...

[Markwebbos]

These umpires need a measuring tape. They can't measure 15 metres.

Or spot a HTB

[waswan]

Not sure if its been said but my first take away it at least 10 running thru the midfield

[crackedactor 01]

Impress with the game O'Riordan is playing. Rowbottom is a great find.

[Markwebbos]

Sir James Rowbottom?
too soon?

[Ralph Dawg]

Best half of footy we've played all season. And the best part about it was that it was lead by Rowbottom, Dawson, COR and Blakey and not the usual suspects (although Parker, Rampe, Lloyd and Papley all pretty good too).

[dejavoodoo44]

So glad that the Giants didn't jag a late goal. Impressive effort to keep them to only one in the first half, and that was a soft as baby powder free against Rampe.

Parker doing an excellent job leading the mids. Rampe doing the same for the defence.

[Scottee]

Best half of footy we've played all season. And the best part about it was that it was lead by Rowbottom, Dawson, COR and Blakey and not the usual suspects (although Parker, Rampe, Lloyd and Papley all pretty good too).Parker has been huge.

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[gloveski]

Anyone who thinks Longmire has lost this group needs to watch the start of this game. Who knows what will happen from here on in but every player is just putting in.

Spot on there is always the bigger picture. We are a super young side , inconsistent football is going to happen but when it clicks you can see the end game .


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[Ludwig]

Melican having a blinder. Best game he's played in a long while. Agree that COR has also returned in good form.

For those who wanted to recruit Jye Caldwell, I think he got the message; he's playing like he's already on our list.

And just how many midfielders do we need to recruit? I lost count.:rolleyes:

[Melbourne_Blood]

Best half of footy we've played all season. And the best part about it was that it was lead by Rowbottom, Dawson, COR and Blakey and not the usual suspects (although Parker, Rampe, Lloyd and Papley all pretty good too).

Yep. All the nice little signs we’ve seen this year seem to have culminated in that one brilliant half of footy. May it continue .

Annoying that the commentary is heavy on how bad GWS have been though, rather than how good we have been.


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[dejavoodoo44]

Great start. Parker come to play. Thurlow has started very well also. Nice from Dawson and Foot there .


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If players get a say on who's in the team next week, I'm sure Dawson will be putting in a good word for Foot.

[longmile]

So glad that the Giants didn't jag a late goal. Impressive effort to keep them to only one in the first half, and that was a soft as baby powder free against Rampe.

Parker doing an excellent job leading the mids. Rampe doing the same for the defence.

I feel like we always get 1-2 of those a game in front of goal. While we get some soft frees there rarely if ever in front of goal. Would absolutely love a soft as @@@@ free in front of goal today

[i'm-uninformed2]

Sir James Rowbottom?
too soon?

No

[Melbourne_Blood]

Melican having a blinder. Best game he's played in a long while. Agree that COR has also returned in good form.

For those who wanted to recruit Jye Caldwell, I think he got the message; he's playing like he's already on our list.

And just how many midfielders do we need to recruit? I lost count.:rolleyes:

At least three more, with injuries age and the chance ‘ the festival of footy’ will continue in future seasons , you need depth !


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[Ralph Dawg]

Melican having a blinder. Best game he's played in a long while. Agree that COR has also returned in good form.

For those who wanted to recruit Jye Caldwell, I think he got the message; he's playing like he's already on our list.

And just how many midfielders do we need to recruit? I lost count.:rolleyes:
Caldwell's been pretty anonymous tonight and gifted us a goal but he would still look good in red and white (for the right price of course!)!

[i'm-uninformed2]

Regardless of the end result, this is why I’m fine with our trajectory and what we’re doing as a club.

[gloveski]

Caldwell's been pretty anonymous tonight and gifted us a goal but he would still look good in red and white (for the right price of course!)!

Agree totally Caldwell has some serious talent


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[dejavoodoo44]

Disposals 101-54, Clearances 16-6, but we are losing inside 50s 9-11, wtf?

Inside 50s can be a deceptive stat. For instance, a shallow entry that gets punched out, then scrambled back in, before being rebounded, counts as two entries. While a clean hit of a target and goal, counts as one.

[Foreign Legion]

I reckon Sinclair has been pretty good tonight - best "ruck" game he has played for a while.

McCartin can take a good strong grab too - if he was 5cm taller he would be hard to beat.

[dimelb]

Great to see O'Riordan's performance so far. As for Dawson and Blakey, wunderbar!
We are playing tight when needed (how do they get the ball out at times?) and spreading once we've got the ball.
Outstanding football. I think Blakey might be over the second year blues, and I'm gobsmacked by the work of Rowbottom.

[dejavoodoo44]

Clearly the Nick Blakey that was playing before tonight was an imposter.

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He's starting to remind me of the Bont: except that his handballs are legal.

[707]

Of course they get a soft free kick goal

Looking forward to Buddy getting frees for the same amount of touch that Cameron got there and Reid got last week from Rampe, weak as piddle free kicks!

I like the good Swans crowd there

[Mark26]

What a half! What an exciting glimpse of our future. Just because others have singled him out, I will too. Rowbottom has been huge. The cygnets need to finish what they started now.

[Markwebbos]

They did even things up a lot in that quarter. Now disposals 172-123, clearances 20-19, inside 50s 16-24
So for that quarter it was 71-69 disposals, 4-13 clearances, 7-13 inside 50s.

[longmile]

Both goals from soft as @@@@ free kicks

[Markwebbos]

Another soft (or as Dunstall put it dubious) free for their second goal

[gloveski]

Far out how many soft free kicks do we get payed against us in the oppositions 50


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[Daisi]

Oh the umpires are playing now....Why wasnt that a 50 to us with Cameron almost decapitating our player?

[Markwebbos]

Feels like someone delivered an envelope stuffed with cash to the umpires at half time

[longmile]

God I hope we get one to win the game

[Markwebbos]

Hayward is doing a great defensive job on Haynes.

Florent is trying way too hard

[longmile]

God I hope we get one to win the game

A soft free that is

[Markwebbos]

Cmon Foot

[longmile]

On a more negative note Bell, Florent and Stephens not great

O'Riordan and melican proving us wrong

[Daisi]

Oh Rampe!

[0918330512]

Paps consecutive goal games about to end?

[Daisi]

We were just robbed of a goal. I have never seen that before....

[Markwebbos]

Melican's mojo has returned. That was a confident mark

[Melbourne_Blood]

Melican's mojo has returned. That was a confident mark

Yeah a couple of whipping boys standing up tonight , melican and Sinclair.


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[Markwebbos]

Clearly legged there

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Not Paps night perhaps?

[Daisi]

Again! The Giants get a soft free and another goal. All their goals have come from free kicks...That's ridiculous. Ahhhh I can't believe they missed it...phew!

[Markwebbos]

Poetic justice

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Again! The Giants get a soft free and another goal. All their goals have come from free kicks...That's ridiculous.

Except they missed!

[Ralph Dawg]

Poetic justice
You read my mind. Let's bring it home!

[Legs Akimbo]

Umpiring was good in first half. That quarter seemed like they really had intent to get GWS back into the game.

[Daisi]

Poetic justice

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Except they missed!

I was having a tantrum that quickly turned into a cheer....

[Markwebbos]

So bad tonight

Umpiring I take it you mean?

4 goals up ... we are going to be under siege, but will have some slingshot opportunities. Paps to kick the sealer?

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Umpiring was good in first half. That quarter seemed like they really had intent to get GWS back into the game.

I wasn't entirely joking about the bribe.

[Foreign Legion]

Yes though 2 frees to GWS that resulted in goals are pretty strange. Not suprised though.

Hang on young Bloods.

[Thunder Shaker]

Fun facts time:
* 2.6 (18) may be the Giants' lowest ever score to 3/4 time. They have previously scored 2.7 (19) to 3/4 time twice, in last year's Grand Final and against Geelong at Kardinia Park in 2018.
* Their lowest ever score is 3.7 (25), again in last year's Grand Final.

[tasswan]

Zac Foot reminds me of a young Paul Kelly


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[AB Swannie]

On a more negative note Bell, Florent and Stephens not great

O'Riordan and melican proving us wrong

Disagree.

I think Stephens has done his job. I think he could be playing on Whitfield who hasn't had much influence. He's also laid 6 tackles.

Bell also has 6 contested possessions and has presented nicely. Not everyone can have 20+ touches.

Some have to play their role and I think these young blokes are doing just that. Look at Hayward. Some people will say he's done nothing but he's done a fantastic job on Haynes.

[0918330512]

Paps to kick the sealer?
Paps to kick 3 in the last quarter

[dejavoodoo44]

Two Giants goals by three quarter time and both of them were from very, very soft frees. And that late free against Melican was soft as well. Also glad that Foot marked and goaled, because Hayward was having trouble getting to that contest, with Haynes applying the handbrake.

But anyway, excellent effort, especially the pressure on the Giants ball carriers.

[AB Swannie]

Also want to make mention of Robbie Fox. He's been immense since he's returned to the side and played as an undersized key defender.

[Markwebbos]

Also want to make mention of Robbie Fox. He's been immense since he's returned to the side and played as an undersized key defender.

I agree, like a Rampe-junior(TM)

[longmile]

A soft free and potentially match sealing goal. Justice

[Markwebbos]

Thurlow has resurrected his career since he returned too. I wonder if traveling and spending a lot of time together suits this young side?

[Thunder Shaker]

Paps consecutive goal games about to end?
I would rather the streak of consecutive losses ends. Draft picks be damned, I want to beat the Fums.

[Ralph Dawg]

Thurlow has really surprised me last couple of weeks

[Scottee]

Thurlow has become a surprisingly good goal kicking option.

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[Sandridge]

C'mon you wonderful little Cygnets!!. Keep it going!!

[Wardy]

Best they’ve played in a while - loving it

[Markwebbos]

I could handle putting a nail into the coffin of the Giants finals hopes

[Wardy]

Some of the holding the ball calls are very questionable - and who knew there were so many swans supporters in Perth!!!

[Markwebbos]

this is going to be a shellacking for the Giants

[Thunder Shaker]

Best they’ve played in a while - loving it
Probably the best Swans game since the Eagles game last year.

[Sandridge]

Some of the holding the ball calls are very questionable - and who knew there were so many swans supporters in Perth!!!

WA Swans Supporters Club - WA Supporters of the Sydney Swans (https://waswans.com.au/)

[Daisi]

WOW. Is that the Sydney chant in WA? OK that's wild

[AB Swannie]

Some of the holding the ball calls are very questionable - and who knew there were so many swans supporters in Perth!!!

I was thinking the same thing. Fantastic!

[mcs]

Gee I am @@@@ing enjoying this wonderful surprise tonight. Anyone that doesn't rate the potential in our list is a bum. There is a lot to like about the group already, and it will only get better in time.

[goswannies]

Earlier in the season the commentators seemed to delight in pointing out our low scores. They haven’t pointed out that this is currently GW$’s lowest ever score

... thanks Jason D

[Mel]

What a great goal by the kids. Geez I’m enjoying this game

[Daisi]

I'm really enjoying this...This is the most fun I've had away from the footy for a long time...and go the WA swans supporters...you guys are fabulous!

[mcs]

WOW. Is that the Sydney chant in WA? OK that's wild

We always get seriously good support over there. I went over around 2011 or so to watch us, and was astounded how much support there was.

This is sensational watching. That Stephens can bludy well play - and anyone that says Rowbottom won't be a star is also a bum if you ask me :clap:

[Wardy]

WA Swans Supporters Club - WA Supporters of the Sydney Swans (https://waswans.com.au/)

I guess you don’t get tickets easily there Normally - excellent turnout!!

[Thunder Shaker]

They haven’t pointed out that this is currently GW$’ slowest ever score
I'm listening to the game on ABC Radio and they pointed this out a few minutes ago.

A couple more goals and this will be our highest score for the year (currently 74).

[Mel]

Thurlow has resurrected his career since he returned too. I wonder if traveling and spending a lot of time together suits this young side?
I made this comment to my husband the other day. Bunch of young blokes on an extended road trip where you can’t leave the squad too much. A great adventure and a wonderful chance for extended bonding.

[stevoswan]

WA Swans Supporters Club - WA Supporters of the Sydney Swans (https://waswans.com.au/)

Just checked that......looks like a well organised bunch and they'll be having a top night tonight!👍

[Daisi]

And another free kick in front of goal....crazy!

[i'm-uninformed2]

GWS are such a miserable, plastic, weak piece of trash

[mcs]

I made this comment to my husband the other day. Bunch of young blokes on an extended road trip where you can’t leave the squad too much. A great adventure and a wonderful chance for extended bonding.

We aren't doing anything much in the grand scheme of things this season, but this road trip, with Cairns to follow could really make this group of young guys. While there will be ups and downs to come of course, this could make this squad go places quicker then we could ever hope.

So happy to see Melican have a fabulous game too- need to see it become a regularly!

Come on that is not a free kick!

[Markwebbos]

Jason Dunstall has consistently called out the shocking umpiring

[Mel]

What a joke. All of their goals from rubbish free kicks

[Wardy]

Wow you don’t get the commentators on our side often but Dunstall was going off - 3 goals from free kicks - imagine if umpire number 9 was on - the scores would be reversed!

[longmile]

Only three goals and all from poor free kicks. Imagine being a GWS supporter tonight

[Thunder Shaker]

And another free kick in front of goal....crazy!
Does anyone know what portion of their score has not come from free kicks?

[Mel_C]

All of their goals are from soft frees. That last one was a disgrace especially considering one of our defenders was hit in the head in the goal square just beforehand.

[Swanstubbs]

Well done Swans. I most unexpected win and another impressive effort from our cygnets. How good were the defence. GWS score only 3 goals and they’re all from ridiculous umpiring decisions.

[Thunder Shaker]

All of their goals are from soft frees. That last one was a disgrace especially considering one of our defenders was hit in the head in the goal square just beforehand.
They've kicked a couple of behinds from frees as well but I don't know how many.

[Mark26]

He's one of the better commentators.

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He's one of the better commentators.

Dunstall, that is.

I'm not a fan of Sinkers, but he played really well tonight. Well done!

[mcs]

Cheer Cheer the Red and the White! That was just beautiful to watch.

If we get it right at the next draft or two, we are not that far away at all. Inconsistency will be seen in plentiful supply in the next couple of seasons, but we showed at moments tonight how we are trying to play the game, and some of our young kids showed that we have some serious talent coming through.

Far out that was good - been an awful week at work so needed that great suprise so much!

[Mel]

Well, I needed that. Massive thanks to our young kids (and our older leaders) for bringing a night of fun and excitement into our lives during these strange times. Haven’t enjoyed a game like that for a long time. And by the look of those kids there will be more to come in the future.

And I’m a massive Rowbottom fan. There’s something magic about that kid.

[Markwebbos]

They look like they really REALLY enjoyed that... Good to see big Sam Naismith there too

- - - Updated - - -

And all of this with a new, million-times better attacking gameplan

[Melbourne_Blood]

Magnificent effort from our boys tonight. Cheer Cheer ! The future looks bright !


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[Wardy]

Dunstall is still going off - nice to hear the boys get real praise !!

- - - Updated - - -

Agree we need a new big ground !!

[stevoswan]

Wow, what an unexpected joy tonights game turned out to be.....well done younguns! Can't wait to see the highlights!

[Jimitron5000]

And to think I tipped the Giants by 44. I'm hanging my head in shame.
Great effort by a developing team. There is a lot to work with there!

[Odysseus]

What a joke. All of their goals from rubbish free kicks

Great game from the Bloods!

As for the opposition, how often has it happened that every goal a team has kicked has been from a free kick? Has it ever happened?

[Aaron]

Really enjoy the night. Good for the team to get rewarded!

[Scottee]

Great game by the lads. We have plenty to look forward to.

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[Legs Akimbo]

That was deeply satisfying. Lots to be happy about but most happy about Melican. Bell had a great first game I thought. They look like a tight knit bunch. I'm feeling so much love. Great feeling during challenging times.

[Captain]

Awesome win!! So many positives.

Sinclair! Melican! Blakey!

[Melbourne_Blood]

Papas showed a lot despite no goals. Honestly this guy could be a gun on baller if he can develop the tank required. I think that’s his future, and I see a Brownlow in that future


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[Sandridge]

Mighty, mighty Cygnets!!!!

[stevoswan]

Great game from the Bloods!

As for the opposition, how often has it happened that every goal a team has kicked has been from a free kick? Has it ever happened?

But no surprise it could only happen against us......

[Melbourne_Blood]

And yes , nice to see Melican dominate, and Sinkers show he’s more than a plodder


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[i'm-uninformed2]

Great game by Hayward too. Looked like Horse singled him out in the post match circle for what he did to Haynes.

[waswan]

Great game great atmosphere

So many guys had a crack.

Best thing was the massive rotation thru the middle, great to see Paps in there too

[Markwebbos]

Somebody else already said it, but Sinkers and the Pelican were both sensational tonight. Sinkers seemed to get a lot of the ball in open play.

[mcs]

Well, I needed that. Massive thanks to our young kids (and our older leaders) for bringing a night of fun and excitement into our lives during these strange times. Haven’t enjoyed a game like that for a long time. And by the look of those kids there will be more to come in the future.

And I’m a massive Rowbottom fan. There’s something magic about that kid.

Doesn't quite have the tank of a few of his peers in front of him from the same draft class (Such as Smith at the dogs), but I have every bit of confidence he will be as good as them in time. The kid has so much to like about how he plays the game.

[dimelb]

What a great TEAM effort. The old blokes went well and the youngsters were fantastic.
Now for the Dockers!

[mcs]

Well done to that bludy magnificent support over there tonight too. Came through very loud and clear - lucky ducks to enjoy watching that beautiful Cygnet display. If that is a sign of things to come, we are all going to really enjoy the footy to come in coming years. These Cygnets go alright - they ain't just systematic like the swans of old could be said - there's a bit of hydromatic in there too :rofl

Loved the team song too - they are a good group!

[Markwebbos]

What a great TEAM effort. The old blokes went well and the youngsters were fantastic.
Now for the Dockers!

If we can play like that again, the Dockers game could be a great contest between two young, up-and-coming teams

[Swanny40519]

Great effort by the whole team - players and coaches. All goals gifted by free kicks. Just what they deserved. Their big heads may start to shrink ?

[MattW]

He's one of the better commentators.

- - - Updated - - -



Dunstall, that is.

I'm not a fan of Sinkers, but he played really well tonight. Well done!

Sinclair's best game of the year. Towelled Jacobs; was clean too. I'm not a fan either generally, but he was very good tonight.

- - - Updated - - -


Well, I needed that. Massive thanks to our young kids (and our older leaders) for bringing a night of fun and excitement into our lives during these strange times. Haven’t enjoyed a game like that for a long time. And by the look of those kids there will be more to come in the future.

And I’m a massive Rowbottom fan. There’s something magic about that kid.

Right with you re Rowbottom. He leads on the field, just 26 games in and at 19yo. He's proactive and tough. He has a great mentor in Parker.

[Wardy]

And a big shout out to the WA Supporters - you did us proud too.

[mcs]

Wonderful to see what we did from Blakey tonight too - the kid can play midfield, 13 disposals, 5 marks 2 goals 1 to half time with 70 % in midfield. The kid will be inconsistent, but boy can he play.

[MattW]

Somebody else already said it, but Sinkers and the Pelican were both sensational tonight. Sinkers seemed to get a lot of the ball in open play.

Melican's best game since 2017; almost the most exciting part of the night because it's a real area of need. Great body work and kicked very well with both feet

[longmile]

Amazing heartfelt game by a bunch of young and anonymous Swans. Huge games by some key players like Rampe, Lloyd, Parker ... and Sinclair who was hug in the ruck. Rowbottom will be a star and Blakey, Melican and O'Riordan proved a lot of people wrong including myself. Thought Hayward and Dawson were huge, and Papley while he didnt do much was a thorn in GW$' side and very exciting. Hayward has turned the corner after a poor start and Fox has finally found himself.

Happiest I've been for the Swans all year. Only negative note is that I barely spotted Wicks and Florent in the second half of the year has seemed to fallen by the wayside

[i'm-uninformed2]

Rowbottom does what the great midfielders do: he accelerates into contests.

[MattW]

Amazing heartfelt game but a bunch of young and anonymous Swans. Huge games by some key players like Rampe, Lloyd, Parker ... and Sinclair who was hug in the ruck. Rowbottom will be a star and Blakey, Melican and O'Riordan proved a lot of people wrong including myself. Thought Hayward and Dawson were huge, and Papley while he didnt do much was a thorn in GW$' side and very exciting.

Happiest I've been for the Swans all year. Only negative note is that I barely spotted Wicks and Florent in the second half of the year has seemed to fallen by the wayside

Mea culpa as well on O'Riordan. He was hard tonight and good under pressure. Well played

[The Runner]

Nice that we got to play in Leon Cameron's farewell game

[MattW]

Difficult to choose my favourite moment of the game between Stephens' or Bell's goals in the last.

Stephens' was pure class and deeply promising for the future - another confident and impressive last quarter; Bell's for the emotion he showed when he kicked it. I really like Bell- he runs hard, tackles hard and backs himself. He's clearly a Blood.

[Markwebbos]

Nice that we got to play in Leon Cameron's farewell game

Big call, but he must be under huge pressure right now

[Ludwig]

It's so great to see things come together for a big win. I've been imagining the future, but it's nice to see it happen over 4 quarters in a real game.

Sinkers played like a real #1 ruckman. He was fantastic. Papley does so much even without getting big possessions or kicking goals. There's no way we will ever let him go.

With Melican, COR and Fox playing so well, it seems like we have so much depth in defence. In fact, when you think of the number of talented players, both experienced and youngsters, not in the side, the future is looking very bright indeed.

Final Score: Swans: 66 Umps: 18 GSW: 7

So, we learned what the umpiring quota is against the Swans. 3 goals. We don't have to complain about it anymore. It's in the rule book.

[dejavoodoo44]

Wonderful effort tonight. It's even more enjoyable, when you tune into the game, thinking that we're going to get pounded by the AFL's spoilt rotten love child, but instead, you witness a pounding the other way. So many highlights, but I think what I enjoyed most, was the relentless pressure that we put on the Giants. They hardly managed to move the ball efficiently all match. It was more a case of them being driven into ground, flinging the ball away, or hacking out ineffective dump kicks.

When they did get it forward, it was invariably repelled by our excellent defence, which was led superbly by Rampe. Parker did a similar leadership role in the midfield, and was a fitting winner of the Brett Kirk Medal. Sinclair put in one of his admirable 110% efforts. Really pleased that Foot had an enjoyable debut and that Wicks got his first win. Pleased that Stephens and Bell continued to do more than enough to keep their places. But I could keep mentioning player after player, because it really was an excellent all round effort.

[mcs]

Difficult to choose my favourite moment of the game between Stephens' or Bell's goals in the last.

Stephens' was pure class and deeply promising for the future - another confident and impressive last quarter; Bell's for the emotion he showed when he kicked it. I really like Bell- he runs hard, tackles hard and backs himself. He's clearly a Blood.

Watching Bell in reserves in recent seasons, I've always seen glimpses of a really good player - patches of good footy in him that make you stand up and say 'this kid could make it'. Every week since coming back in this season to seniors, he keeps doing the same. There is a lot to like about the way he plays.

What excites me is the thought of him continuing to develop, and the thought of Taylor being another livewire running around too. There was plenty of young talent on show out there tonight, but there's a bit we haven't yet seen much of that has plenty in the bank too. We are building, very very nicely.

And Stephens has been quietly impressing me as well, but really liked what he did tonight. Not getting a heap of the footy, but he is calm, confident and oozes a bit of class. It is very early, but I reckon we are going to look back in time about 2018 and 2019 recruiting on the draft side and think we really got a lot right.

[dejavoodoo44]

Difficult to choose my favourite moment of the game between Stephens' or Bell's goals in the last.

Stephens' was pure class and deeply promising for the future - another confident and impressive last quarter; Bell's for the emotion he showed when he kicked it. I really like Bell- he runs hard, tackles hard and backs himself. He's clearly a Blood.
Yes, I think Bell spent a fair bit of time running with Whitfield; who had minimal influence.

[Nico]

Melican's best game since 2017; almost the most exciting part of the night because it's a real area of need. Great body work and kicked very well with both feet

I agree. I have been his greatest critic but if he plays like that consistently then I am happy to have him in the team. He towelled up a fairly handy forward. Another who has given us some maturity and steadyness is Thurlow. He has put up his hand to stay on the list.

[The Big Cat]

Only three goals and all from poor free kicks. Imagine being a GWS supporter tonight

He’ll be devastated.

[giant]

How good was that? What a delightful surprise for a Thursday night! Not a member of the 22 who didn't contribute, just tremendous.

[Captain]

No changes for the game against Freo.

[mcs]

I agree. I have been his greatest critic but if he plays like that consistently then I am happy to have him in the team. He towelled up a fairly handy forward. Another who has given us some maturity and steadyness is Thurlow. He has put up his hand to stay on the list.

Thurlow seems to be grasping this chance - maybe he sees it as his last chance saloon to stay in AFL footy. But he has great since coming back in. 15 touches and a goal tonight, on top of what he did last week. We need to find a few players like him to fill out an older rump of experienced players to help guide the Cygnets. Long may his good form continue, as I've always enjoyed how he tries to play the game.

[Blood Fever]

I agree. I have been his greatest critic but if he plays like that consistently then I am happy to have him in the team. He towelled up a fairly handy forward. Another who has given us some maturity and steadyness is Thurlow. He has put up his hand to stay on the list.

Would be great if he became the player we thought he'd become when he first started until he got a lot of injuries.

[mcs]

He’ll be devastated.

:clap: :rofl

One final smile before a contented sleep tonight - thanks Big Cat!

[Mel_C]

Hayward is doing a great defensive job on Haynes.


Yes he did a fantastic job. It shows you that you can't just look at stats. I noticed that after the players sang the song, Longmire pulled the players into a group and he singled out Hayward giving him feedback on his performance and congratulating him.

[dejavoodoo44]

It's so great to see things come together for a big win. I've been imagining the future, but it's nice to see it happen over 4 quarters in a real game.

Sinkers played like a real #1 ruckman. He was fantastic. Papley does so much even without getting big possessions or kicking goals. There's no way we will ever let him go.

With Melican, COR and Fox playing so well, it seems like we have so much depth in defence. In fact, when you think of the number of talented players, both experienced and youngsters, not in the side, the future is looking very bright indeed.

Final Score: Swans: 66 Umps: 18 GSW: 7

So, we learned what the umpiring quota is against the Swans. 3 goals. We don't have to complain about it anymore. It's in the rule book.

Are you sure that none of the behinds were also from soft frees?

[707]

Earlier in the season the commentators seemed to delight in pointing out our low scores. They haven’t pointed out that this is currently GW$’s lowest ever score

... thanks Jason D

All commentators have pointed out the record low score, all from free kicks, all dubious or plain wrong calls. Nice work by those guys.

[Ludwig]

Thurlow was the biggest recruiting disappointment last year. I had him #1 for delisting, but now he's back on board. He was drafted with a reputation of being a very good kick and he's showing it now.

Melican had such a good all around game. He had the best disposal efficiency of all the Swans. We know what he's capable of. I don't see why he can't do it consistently.

That was a pretty good first game from Zac Foot. Once he adjusts to AFL level, he'll pick up the pace of the game. The Giants really didn't play an AFL level game tonight, so Zac and rest of the players will have to adjust to Freo, who will bring a lot more heat than the Giants did.

- - - Updated - - -


Are you sure that none of the behinds were also from soft frees?There were a couple. They were so soft, even the GWS player was embarrassed to kick a goal.

[707]

Great game plan by Horse & Co. Targeted the key GWS playmakers and selected the right players to negate them.

Melican & COR probably had their best games for us, Rampe and Sinclair were immense, Blakey and Dawson very good games, pist that the umpire gave a free to Papley in the pocket (missed the shot) when Dawson had marked on a much better angle and probably kicks it. Parker just did what he does every week.

Add three very good players at the draft to this team, nice.

[Markwebbos]

Let’s not get too carried away after that, we are now in 16th spot.

[Nico]

Franklin, Kennedy and Heeney fit and fighting next year and we will be back. All of a sudden our depth for 2021 is there.

[dejavoodoo44]

Thurlow was the biggest recruiting disappointment last year. I had him #1 for delisting, but now he's back on board. He was drafted with a reputation of being a very good kick and he's showing it now.

Melican had such a good all around game. He had the best disposal efficiency of all the Swans. We know what he's capable of. I don't see why he can't do it consistently.

That was a pretty good first game from Zac Foot. Once he adjusts to AFL level, he'll pick up the pace of the game. The Giants really didn't play an AFL level game tonight, so Zac and rest of the players will have to adjust to Freo, who will bring a lot more heat than the Giants did.

- - - Updated - - -

There were a couple. They were so soft, even the GWS player was embarrassed to kick a goal.
Yes, strange that Thurlow is now looking like an AFL standard player, when in the second half of last season, he barely looked to be NEAFL standard? And you start to wonder what is wrong with the Giants? Last few seasons, they could really cut teams up with slick ball movement. Tonight they hardly threatened. They did have a few key injuries, but our injury list is more extensive. Perhaps they came in thinking they were going to have an easy win, and by the time that they realised that wasn't going to happen, our kids had too much momentum?

[wolftone57]

Franklin, Kennedy and Heeney fit and fighting next year and we will be back. All of a sudden our depth for 2021 is there.There is no guarantee Franklin will ever recover

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[wolftone57]

Yes, strange that Thurlow is now looking like an AFL standard player, when in the second half of last season, he barely looked to be NEAFL standard? And you start to wonder what is wrong with the Giants? Last few seasons, they could really cut teams up with slick ball movement. Tonight they hardly threatened. They did have a few key injuries, but our injury list is more extensive. Perhaps they came in thinking they were going to have an easy win, and by the time that they realised that wasn't going to happen, our kids had too much momentum?No. It has been a problem for them for a few seasons. Getting their kazy miids and forwards to play atwo way game

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[Markwebbos]

There is no guarantee Franklin will ever recover

Steady Nostradamus.

There may be no guarantee, but he’s highly likely to recover. And hopefully before the end of the season.

[longmile]

There is no guarantee Franklin will ever recover

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hey bruzzi dont need that kind of negative energy here

[Thunder Shaker]

An interesting stat:

Inside 50: GWS 52, Sydney 32.
Score per inside 50: GWS 0.48, Sydney 2.06.

(Deduct 3.1 for the umpires' contribution to GWS' score, that becomes 0.12 per inside 50 from their own efforts.)

[Meg]

Thurlow has resurrected his career since he returned too. I wonder if traveling and spending a lot of time together suits this young side?

I think you are absolutely right there. Predominantly young, single men without family/ home responsibilities, living together in nice accommodation, dont have to shop for food, cook meals, even better than living with Mum. I think they are loving it and it is bonding them together.

I’m pleased to see something good come out if this otherwise horrid Covid-19 year.

[Markwebbos]

Horse was asked during his post-game presser, how they keep the players occupied during a 9 day break in a hub. And he said it gives them an opportunity to work at developing the young players.

I think GWS made us look very good tonight, but it’s also the best many individual players - no need to name them all - have played all year.

Long may it continue!

[aardvark]

Pure joy! Well done lads.

[crackedactor 01]

What really impress me was we did not have a bad player. Wicks was a little quiet, but it was his second game. Thought Thurlow and O'Riordan were not up to AFL Standard, I was wrong!

[Auntie.Gerald]

A joy to watch the swans capitalise and bring the hunt which is the DNA of the best teams

GWS were terrible
No ability to adjust nor no ability to lift the intensity for sustained periods and score points

[Auntie.Gerald]

PS loved the way we cleared from the contest and let GWS go in tight then handpass ahead to a swans player 10m already clear awaiting......

No Hewett
No Bud
No Heeney
No AA
No Kennedy

[neilfws]

Sound like we all enjoyed our Thursday night!

GWS were awful - as was that late free decision against Stephens - but our young blokes were great. Almost like the coaches said just go out there, give it a good crack and enjoy it. The most "Swans-like intensity" we've seen in some time.

Happy to see Melican back into form, Sinclair competing well (won HO 28-25! and more around the ground) and great first half from Dawson. Dawson has a quiet, serious intensity about him that I like a lot, not to mention that boot.

Just felt like a game where you saw something good from everyone and many players reaching the potential we know they have. Gives me a lot of hope for 2021.

Even being lauded by the Melbourne footy media :)

[Captain]

I loved the look of our midfield now and in the future.

Rowbottom, Blakey, Parker, Stephens, Papley, Florent.

Throw in Heeney and maybe Mills and that is a very solid group.

JPK will be ok for 1 more year but can't find a place for Hewett. Having both of them (plus Parker) makes us too slow.

[gloveski]

Yes he did a fantastic job. It shows you that you can't just look at stats. I noticed that after the players sang the song, Longmire pulled the players into a group and he singled out Hayward giving him feedback on his performance and congratulating him.

I noticed that as well . He looked banged up as well shows the character of Hayward . No wonder he is one of Longmire’s favourites


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[Sandridge]

Team song: Sydney (https://www.sydneyswans.com.au/video/794789/team-song-sydney?videoId=794789&modal=true&type=video&publishFrom=1597321944001)

Nice to see that a group of young men can excitedly show affection for each other and do it in an appropriate manner!

GO CYGNETS!!

[bloodspirit]

No Hewett
No Bud
No Heeney
No AA
No Kennedy

Great night!

I was just about to post the same as you, AG. With a fully fit list we had six of our senior best 22 players absent (those you listed plus Naismith) and another bunch of talented kids waiting in the wings. We're on an exciting trajectory and, as I usually say, the future is bright!

Also, hats off to the coaches. They had a great night. Tactically last night, strategically all season and longer developing this game plan, and in terms of keeping the group's morale up and ready to play good footy, they did an excellent job.

All that said, I'm not getting carried away. We had a rousing win against a big rival. But it's a weird season and the opposition didn't play well. I'm reminded of the truism: it's never as good, or as bad, as you think.

[Ruck'n'Roll]

On a more negative note Bell, Florent and Stephens not great
O'Riordan and melican proving us wrong


hey bruzzi dont need that kind of negative energy here

Unsure as to which form of negativity is and is not appropriate. But as one of those that had remain positive about the Pelican, I feel I'm entitled to sound a small note pf caution. I think he is less than quick on his feet laterally, he got wrong footed only once that I saw last night - and it's the main reason why I think he should take on a Grundy like role and take on the monsters, where that weakness is less likely to be a problem.
But very pleased he has one up in RWO's esteem.

[Ruck'n'Roll]

I loved the look of our midfield now and in the future.
Rowbottom, Blakey, Parker, Stephens, Papley, Florent.
Throw in Heeney and maybe Mills and that is a very solid group.
JPK will be ok for 1 more year but can't find a place for Hewett. Having both of them (plus Parker) makes us too slow.

Perhaps with the emergence of the new mids in the absence of JPK and Hewett, there will be no reason for those two and Parker to completely dominate attendance at the bounce the way they did last year - and make us look slow?

[Swanny40519]

Wonderful effort tonight. It's even more enjoyable, when you tune into the game, thinking that we're going to get pounded by the AFL's spoilt rotten love child, but instead, you witness a pounding the other way. So many highlights, but I think what I enjoyed most, was the relentless pressure that we put on the Giants. They hardly managed to move the ball efficiently all match. It was more a case of them being driven into ground, flinging the ball away, or hacking out ineffective dump kicks.

When they did get it forward, it was invariably repelled by our excellent defence, which was led superbly by Rampe. Parker did a similar leadership role in the midfield, and was a fitting winner of the Brett Kirk Medal. Sinclair put in one of his admirable 110% efforts. Really pleased that Foot had an enjoyable debut and that Wicks got his first win. Pleased that Stephens and Bell continued to do more than enough to keep their places. But I could keep mentioning player after player, because it really was an excellent all round effort.

Agree 100%. I started the game with a fear of getting thrashed. By the end of Q1 I was cheering along and by Q4 the dog had deterred me because of my yelling.

A fantastic team effort by the whole team and coaches. But special mention to Rampe, Parker, Sinkers, Rowbotham and Melican (who I think played his best game for the Swans ever). The future looks bright and I can't wait until 2021 when we get back some of the older stars. Really pleased to see J Cameron thoroughly beaten by Rampe - he tried to throw his weight around as usual but failed miserably.

[Melbourne_Blood]

I don’t want to dampen the mood but wanted to share this.

My Dads best mate passed away last night , he was terminal. They both are very mad old South Melbourne supporters. Apparently he held on until just after the swans won.

Very sad but has to be said , that’s the kind of win any Bloods supporter would be happy to go out on.


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[dejavoodoo44]

I don’t want to dampen the mood but wanted to share this.

My Dads best mate passed away last night , he was terminal. They both are very mad old South Melbourne supporters. Apparently he held on until just after the swans won.

Very sad but has to be said , that’s the kind of win any Bloods supporter would be happy to go out on.


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Sorry to hear that. But as you said, his final moments would probably have had some positive emotions.

Which reminds me of when I was watching Kenny Williams lead the song, after the 2012 GF. Kenny seemed so extremely excited, that I was worried that he might keel over from a heart attack. It had me thinking, that on the one hand, it would've thrown a dampener on the celebrations, but on the other hand, there probably wouldn't be a better way for a Swans diehard to go out.

[Sandridge]

I don’t want to dampen the mood but wanted to share this.

My Dads best mate passed away last night , he was terminal. They both are very mad old South Melbourne supporters. Apparently he held on until just after the swans won.

Very sad but has to be said , that’s the kind of win any Bloods supporter would be happy to go out on.


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Condolences to you, Melbourne Blood, your Dad and his mate's family. Always sad to hear of one of my fellow South Melbourne Swans passing.
Glad that our boys sent your Dad's mate off in the sensational style he deserved!

[dejavoodoo44]

Agree 100%. I started the game with a fear of getting thrashed. By the end of Q1 I was cheering along and by Q4 the dog had deterred me because of my yelling.

A fantastic team effort by the whole team and coaches. But special mention to Rampe, Parker, Sinkers, Rowbotham and Melican (who I think played his best game for the Swans ever). The future looks bright and I can't wait until 2021 when we get back some of the older stars. Really pleased to see J Cameron thoroughly beaten by Rampe - he tried to throw his weight around as usual but failed miserably.

Yes, a few things about Cameron's performance stick in my mind. Firstly, his only goal was from a non-existent free against Rampe. Secondly, the Mills headlock showed his tendency to turn to dirt, when he's getting thoroughly beaten. And adding an exclamation mark to how badly he was getting beaten by the great Dane, was Rampe throwing out his injured right hand, to casually pluck a one handed mark.

And on the extended headlock: that's a perfect example, of how the various interpretations of the 50 metres rules drive me crazy. On the one hand, players are penalized for fleetingly encroaching in the protected zone, for ostensibly slowing down play; even though the ball carrier often has no idea that they're there. On the other hand, when a player is penalized for high contact and then chooses to continue that headlock for another five seconds or so, that is inevitably considered not to be worthy of a 50. Even though it obviously slows down play, far more than the fleeting encroachment.

[Aaron]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EfTS33gU8AABJ9y?format=png&name=medium AFL Player rating has 5 of our players recorded their season's best and 2 more for their career best! Well done boys.

[Swanny40519]

[QUOTE=Melbourne_Blood;799858]I don’t want to dampen the mood but wanted to share this.

My Dads best mate passed away last night , he was terminal. They both are very mad old South Melbourne supporters. Apparently he held on until just after the swans won.

Very sad but has to be said , that’s the kind of win any Bloods supporter would be happy to go out on.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk[/QUOTE

Sorry to hear that news MB. Condolances to your Dad and his mates family.

It reminds me after 2005 GF - I was walking out of the ground trying to get a cab when a bloke carrying a box walked past. We both had Swans scarves on and we smiled and talked for a few minutes. He said he took his dad to the game and he pointed to the box he was carrying. I was overcome with joy about winning and sad his father did not get to see the win in 2005.

[Hotpotato]

The boys improved heaps from the previous two weeks in handball and kicking efficiency and never allowed the Giants to get their running game out of first gear.
Exciting to see all these young players experience a win . So good for their rising confidence .
How many have had their first game this year ?

[gloveski]

I really like the manic pressure our forwards put on . If you look stats wise most of our forwards hardly touched the ball . But they made the GWS defenders constantly kick in a hurry . Another example of stats not really telling the true story


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[Ludwig]

Core defence: Aliir, Melican, Rampe, Lloyd, Fox, COR, plus one of Brand, Gould, O'Connor, Ling, Stoddart. Absolutely no room for Mills, or Cunningham for that matter. Reid and Dawson can play both sides.

That leaves a lot of players available to play midfield: JPK, Parker, Mills, Hewett, Rowbottom, Florent, Cunningham, Stephens, Blakey. Heeney, Paps and Dawson to rotate through midfield. Taylor, McInerney, Ling, Stoddart, Bell and Warner to fill in as needed. Thurlow and Ronke not to be forgotten. Campbell and Gulden drafted this year. I get a count of 22. That's an entire team of just midfielders.

I omitted Clarke, Maibaum, Reynolds and Rowles, assuming they're getting delisted. Someone has to go, because we have zero retirements until 2022 (JPK, Buddy).

This is the way I see the team evolving and why I can't find room for new recruits. There are just not enough spots to play the guys we already have on our list. If they don't play, they will leave, like Membrey and Cameron.

If there are imposed list reductions, we will have a problem finding candidates to delist.



https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EfTS33gU8AABJ9y?format=png&name=medium AFL Player rating has 5 of our players recorded their season's best and 2 more for their career best! Well done boys.Jye Caldwell must have been reading the 2020 Trading and Drafting thread, got freaked out and was the lowest rated player on the day. The influence of RWO on games is enormous.

[O'Reilly Boy]

I think that Cunningham was terrific last night. Increasingly confident in the last line, quick, and delivering really nicely. Gets a long way up the park, too.
And Thurlow looked great. Seemed to have time with each disposal, and was hard at the ball.

[707]

From today's "Sliding Doors" column on the AFL website

"Thursday night, a home and away match against the second-last team, was actually more embarrassing. There's no vibrancy, no spark, no dare. The three goals they kicked against the Swans were all from free kicks, and NOT ONE of those free kicks should have been paid (which is another story). Think about that. They couldn't find a way to kick even one goal without umpire intervention."

Thanks Damo, we're not one eyed Swannies, the umps got it wrong BIG TIME!

[longmile]

Perhaps with the emergence of the new mids in the absence of JPK and Hewett, there will be no reason for those two and Parker to completely dominate attendance at the bounce the way they did last year - and make us look slow?

Interesting conundrum. We certainly look a lot better when we take the game on and our midfield moves with speed. How will we get the balance right next year when they return?

[Ralph Dawg]

Blakey has to play as a wingman, with occasional attendances inside and some time roaming at half forward. He is too slightly built to play as a KF and given how narrow his shoulders are, unlikely to become bulky enough. Plus his skill set lends to playing in a more midfield role.

Rowbottom is a future AA inside mid. It's only a matter of time before he plays whole games like his first quarter last night.

[Melbourne_Blood]

Blakey has to play as a wingman, with occasional attendances inside and some time roaming at half forward. He is too slightly built to play as a KF and given how narrow his shoulders are, unlikely to become bulky enough. Plus his skill set lends to playing in a more midfield role.

Rowbottom is a future AA inside mid. It's only a matter of time before he plays whole games like his first quarter last night.

I have thought the same Re Blakey. How do put size onto such a remarkably slender man ? I’m sure it can be done to an extent but I just Can’t imagine it.


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[TheBloods]

Wowsers what a game ! 4 quarter effort, real hunger, used the space of the bigger ground. Simply awesome footy to watch.

The usual suspects were huge .. Parker, Rampe, Mills led by example all night. Rowbottom just doesn't play a bad game does he ?

New faces looked great - Foot , Bell, Stephens tackling pressure enormous.

Welcome return to form for Sinkers, COR, Blakey, Dawson. Concerning for Florent, Reid and Papley who are struggling with form in recent weeks.

The umpiring however was a disgrace .

[Syd76]

Robbie Fox for the most improved player at the Swans this year.

[Markwebbos]

Robbie Fox for the most improved player at the Swans this year.

Or possibly Sir James?

[Ralph Dawg]

Or possibly Sir James?
It would be a tough choice. I'd give it to Fox, given his baseline was alot lower than Rowbum. He's gone from being a spare parts player, likely delist to an integral part of the backline.

[Scottee]

Yes, a few things about Cameron's performance stick in my mind. Firstly, his only goal was from a non-existent free against Rampe. Secondly, the Mills headlock showed his tendency to turn to dirt, when he's getting thoroughly beaten. And adding an exclamation mark to how badly he was getting beaten by the great Dane, was Rampe throwing out his injured right hand, to casually pluck a one handed mark.

And on the extended headlock: that's a perfect example, of how the various interpretations of the 50 metres rules drive me crazy. On the one hand, players are penalized for fleetingly encroaching in the protected zone, for ostensibly slowing down play; even though the ball carrier often has no idea that they're there. On the other hand, when a player is penalized for high contact and then chooses to continue that headlock for another five seconds or so, that is inevitably considered not to be worthy of a 50. Even though it obviously slows down play, far more than the fleeting encroachment.Should have been a 50.Pathetic inaction by the umpire.

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[Swanny40519]

A big cheer to the WA Swans supporters last night. I was surprised by the amount of red and white in the crowd and the cheers for our team, particularly in the last qtr.

[Hotpotato]

The only change I’d like is to see Lloyd stop going 5 miles backwards after a mark or a free kick ... I know it’s necessary sometimes when heaps of players are behind the ball... but it’s a momentum killer otherwise.

[stevoswan]

And on the extended headlock: that's a perfect example, of how the various interpretations of the 50 metres rules drive me crazy. On the one hand, players are penalized for fleetingly encroaching in the protected zone, for ostensibly slowing down play; even though the ball carrier often has no idea that they're there. On the other hand, when a player is penalized for high contact and then chooses to continue that headlock for another five seconds or so, that is inevitably considered not to be worthy of a 50. Even though it obviously slows down play, far more than the fleeting encroachment.

Nicely put......the 'encroachment' rule is the stupidest, most harshly penalised infraction in footy. It's a shame our leagues leaders are too stupid to see that. Any rule that goes against the spirit of the game and the spirit of fairness should be scrapped.....and this one is the worst.

[waswan]

Blakey has to play as a wingman, with occasional attendances inside and some time roaming at half forward. He is too slightly built to play as a KF and given how narrow his shoulders are, unlikely to become bulky enough. Plus his skill set lends to playing in a more midfield role.


Turn him into a Bont, his skillset and pace lend him to being anything in there. Massive line breaker
A point of note also is that he was by far the lowest Time on Ground too, 64%, will only get better.

So many good tough players, Parker is unbelievable in tight, Bell contests on the ground as much as Tom and Sam do in the air fwd, very underrated influence.

Ollie was inside outside too, dont understand the bashing on here for him. He did alot of the tough stuff for a slight build.

Defence was unreal, oraganised and the fact that Mills in 23 is amazing.

Would love to see all that young manic fwd pressure alongside Buddy

Everyone did their jobs and the players we need getting touches got touches.

[Ralph Dawg]

Turn him into a Bont, his skillset and pace lend him to being anything in there. Massive line breaker
A point of note also is that he was by far the lowest Time on Ground too, 64%, will only get better.

So many good tough players, Parker is unbelievable in tight, Bell contests on the ground as much as Tom and Sam do in the air fwd, very underrated influence.

Ollie was inside outside too, dont understand the bashing on here for him. He did alot of the tough stuff for a slight build.

Defence was unreal, oraganised and the fact that Mills in 23 is amazing.

Would love to see all that young manic fwd pressure alongside Buddy

Everyone did their jobs and the players we need getting touches got touches.
I agree about Ollie, did alot of grunt work and tackled hard, as did Stephens. I reckon Dylan will have a breakout game soon.