We knew coming up against an experienced side in North Melbourne would be a challenge in Round 6. As mentioned in last week's article, we knew that they would field a strong line up and look to play their natural game, and that they did.
In saying that, the scoreboard didn’t reflect the performance from our end, and as a coaching group we made sure we acknowledged the KPIs the team has been working on and the overall effort they put in. The game gave us great insight into how a successful group has paved the way for each other over the years, and have continued to develop to be the team in which they currently are. It was an experience for our playing group, and gave some great learnings across the board, and especially to the younger cohort, of how damaging you can be with a few preseasons under the belt.
Some key takeaways from the game, was the ability to see our next generation of youth up against some of the stars in the game. The ability for the likes of Montana Ham, Sofia Hurley, Paige Sheppard and Cynthia Hamilton to play on some of the best mids in the game in Jasmine Garner, Ash Riddell, Jenna Bruton gave them plenty of learnings to takeaway from the evening and we know in years to come they will be the ones the next generation are playing on and developing their games off.
Another player to mention is Bridie Kennedy, who played an exceptional role on Emma Kearney. Kearney played a pivotal role in the setup from half back, and compliments the role through good disposal use and direction from the back. She was averaging 18 touches heading into the clash, but Kennedy and her defensive forward role was able to hold her to a lean 9 possessions.
It was also great to blood two new Swans with Ruby Sargant-Wilson and Kiara Beesley both making their first appearances in the red and white.
Fast forward to this weekend’s match, and we come up against a steadily improving Gold Coast Suns. A team that has been fairly consistent across the year, and continuing to build as the season progresses. They have plenty of young talent, highlighted by number 1 pick Charlie Rowbottom - a name that would be familiar to the Swans with Charlie the sister of James. Rowbottom is powerful mid, who can cause damage all over the ground. We will also need to be wary of Kalinda Howarth, Serene Watson and one of the best all rounded rucks in Lauren Bella. There will be threats all over the ground, but with that brings excitement and ultimately some good one on one battles to be had.
The playing group are really excited by the opportunity to play the Gold Coast this weekend, and most importantly get out to our home venue in Henson Park. Henson Park provides a great opportunity for the playing group to show the inner west community and Swans cohort what our group has to offer. We are building, and the drive within the group is continuing to build and strengthen.
Baker
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