Sydney Swans defender Dane Rampe says his side’s ability to write some wrongs after quarter-time and gain the ascendency after a bright start from Gold Coast led to Saturday night’s impressive 10-goal win.
The Suns outscored the higher-ranked Swans, five goals to four, to take a five-point lead into the quarter-time.
The home side fell victim to their own wayward kicking and poor decision making from half-back, with Rampe and alike having to scramble and accumulate the intercept marks (11-2) to absorb the Suns’ pressure.
Sydney was quick to respond and return to form, playing out the remaining three quarters with a strong brand of footy.
Rampe said it was pleasing to see the team tidy up their turnover rate after a disappointing start.
The 27-year-old defender, who’s starred since returning from injury, says his side can ill-afford to start slowly against GWS.
“A little bit disappointed in our start,” Rampe said.
“We like to get on the front foot and be very proactive with our pressure.
“We need to start well and start strong.”
The dominant win tasted extra sweet for first-year Lewis Melican who kicked his first goal in senior footy in the final quarter.
Rampe, who was one of many who descended on Melican as the ball sailed through the big sticks, said the goal was the cherry on top of what has been a fantastic six or seven weeks for his fellow defender.
“He’s been super since he’s come in,” said Rampe.
“He’s a really honest defender … we love having him down there”.
The Swans take on the Giants at 7.25pm this Saturday at Spotless Stadium.
The hosts sit second on the ladder, separated from ladder-leaders Adelaide by percentage, and are likely regain the services of up to three players including Toby Greene, Steve Johnson and Zac Williams.
Sydney captain Josh Kennedy is expected to play after missing last weekend’s win with a tight quad.