The week that was has seen a multitude of positives come out of what was a very impressive game against Essendon, and the playing group are really looking forward to the challenge ahead this weekend against Fremantle.
The Essendon game was our best of the season, and as tough as the scoreboard was to read at the conclusion of the four quarters, the key takeaways from the game were positive for the group, and showcased to everyone externally that we are heading in the right direction and continue to grow and build on what we see as a really positive foundation in our inaugural year.
A quick recap of the game. From the outset it was a game that was largely dominated by the team who could best maintain possession, gain territory, and take their opportunities in front of goal. The main focus internally, was the ability to bring continued pressure and ultimately give ourselves these opportunities, and with that, link the ball better by hand and foot through the middle third of the ground. Throughout the majority of the game we were able to do this, and that was what kept us in the contest - especially through the second quarter that saw the group really lift the pressure rating and the standard of play throughout all three lines.
The group was able to carry this into the second half but unfortunately a few lapses in concentration and the ability to stem momentum at the source, was what hurt us throughout the third quarter. The fourth was one of grit and determination from the group, and the most pleasing thing from our perspective is the players never gave in, and they kept on coming, right to the final siren.
Living the dream Zoe Hurrell!
— Sydney Swans AFLW (@SydneySwansAFLW) October 16, 2022
Her first major, with her first possession in her debut game! This was our Moment of the Round, presented by @birdinhandwine #Bloods pic.twitter.com/MzwtNdLSP9
Some special mentions and key takeaways from the game was the performance of 18-year old Sofia Hurley. 12 disposals, two goals and six tackles in what was a breakout performance for Sof in her first year of senior footy. She was also joined by fellow first year player Cynthia Hamilton and Sarah Dargan who both hit the scoreboard multiple times, kicking two goals each too.
Our debutant Zoe Hurrell also joined an exclusive club, kicking a goal with her first touch of the footy, meanwhile Brenna Tarrant was strong in the air down back and picked up a Mark of the Year nomination.
This weekend we return to Sydney and the match provides a fantastic opportunity for our playing group to grow and build on the previous performance, and to put in another strong showing against the Fremantle Dockers. The Dockers bring a highly contested game style, with a lot of physical strength through the middle of the ground. They like to move the ball by foot, and get one on ones ahead of the ball.
It should be a great spectacle and we really look forward to seeing all our members and fans down at Henson Park at 3:10pm on Saturday afternoon for the final home game of the season.