Two changes have been made ahead of Round 8 as the Sydney Swans prepare to take on the Gold Coast Suns this Saturday afternoon. Speaking to Sydney Swans Media AFLW senior coach Scott Gowans confirmed the return of Lauren Szigeti and Sarah Grunden.
"Lauren is a very clever footballer, brings some grunt around the stoppages and she's able to go forward as well which we feel as though that connection between the mids and the forwards is going to be really important this week," he shared.
"And then Sarah, she's the same. Sarah brings in a forward craft but she can also go up on the wing for us as well. Both are good users by foot and that's something we felt we need."
Both the Swans and Suns will be hungry for a win in last year's Elimination Final rematch. Sydney defeated the home side and made history by winning their first ever finals match to progress to the Semi Final.
It's expected to be highly contested as Gold Coast eye off their first W of the 2024 season. Gowans said gaining territory will be crucial to stealing the win.
"Last year in the final it was all about getting the ball from inside to out and this year they've improved that significantly and they've had a couple of close games as well so their ladder position probably doesn't dictate exactly where they are," he said.
"Clearly we have to move the ball forward and get territory. I think the side that has the most territory this week will probably win."
Sydney's last win was on Henson Park in Round 4 with the home ground and sunny weather expected to give the team a much-needed boost. The senior coach praised the droves of members and fans that have supported the club this season.
"The fans that turn up and the red and white everywhere and the celebrations it really does lift you and there's nothing better when you get out on the ground you look around and it's covered in red and white," he reflected.
"It's a spectacle and yeah we love going to Henson and really looking forward to a big crowd turnout this week."
