The Sydney Swans go into next Saturday’s Grand final having led at each change during this year’s finals campaign. Renowned scrappers, the Swans haven’t deviated too much form their possession orientated defensive game, but what has been most impressive is their ability to kick ahead at the start of the game. Against top four heavyweights, the Crows and the Magpies, the Swans built up quick leads. They held the Crows at arms length for the entire match without ever looking in trouble, and while there was a late scare from the Pies, it was only some very clumsy work in front of goal that prevented the 26 goal margin from blowing out further. Those are the kind of breathing spaces that the stress-attuned Swans faithful are not used to and came in games which were predicted to be tight affairs.
The Hawks vs Crows will be an exciting clash. The Hawks are near un-backable favourites and have the form and squad to justify it. The Crows have probably exceeded expectations this season and will gladly take the underdog tag with all the pressure heaped on the minor premiers. It’s certainly far from a done deal and we don’t know who the Swans will face or what role injuries or suspensions will take for their eventual opponents. What we do know is that Adam Goodes and Lewis Jetta have re-found glorious form; Josh Kennedy is play career best footy with another best on ground last night; Kieran Jack and Daniel Hannebery have remained fit and fast and have been ferocious in defence; and the Teddy Richards led backline is as miserly as ever. The Swans are looking good.
