Sydney tall Hayden McLean says Sunday's win over Fremantle will provide a boost of momentum as the team heads into the bye.

The Swans survived a thriller against Fremantle to win by three points for their first win of the season, after falling short against the Lions and Hawks in the opening two rounds. 

McLean returned to the side for the first time this year after an interrupted pre-season and booted two majors. 

Speaking to Sydney Swans Media after the game, the forward said he was thrilled to make a successful return.

"It was a long off-season, but to get the confidence from Coxy this week to get me back in and to get the confidence from the boys to be out there and perform, it felt like I was just floating out there," McClean said. 

"It was good, I think these are the wins that really get the ball rolling.

"To be over here against a crowd that's cheering against you, a few injuries this week, a few leaders out as well and to have a young group come in and play the way we did, I think that's really impressive."

McLean said it was extra special to get the win for senior coach Dean Cox. 

"It was one of those games where we just had to keep going, we felt like we were on top but just weren't hitting the scoreboard like we wanted," McLean said.

"But to come back in that last quarter, Joel kicked that sealer and for Coxy to get his first win over in Perth, that feels unreal.

"As soon as we came in, Coxy was the first one we got around, you can just see how much he means to us as a team and how much of a leader he is for us.

"To get a win over here in his hometown, there's nothing better."

The Swans will break for a bye this weekend, before preparing to face North Melbourne on Saturday, April 5 at Marvel Stadium.