The Sydney Swans had no choice but to move on quickly from last weekend’s Sydney Derby defeat in the shadows of Saturday’s do-or-die semi final against Adelaide, according to midfielder Dan Hannebery.
Hannebery told media ahead of Tuesday’s main training that Adelaide poses a similar – if not bigger – challenge too what GWS dished out at ANZ Stadium and Sydney needed to lift or face an early exit.
The prolific midfielder, who’s averaged 34 disposals against Adelaide in the past four encounters, argued the Crows had all the attributes of a “top two, top four side” pinpointing their ball movement and imposing forward line as keys to their strong form this season.
Hannebery said his side couldn’t afford to take Adelaide lightly when the clubs’ meet in Saturday night’s crunch game at the SCG.
“In terms of hardness, intensity, hit on the footy, it will be similar (to the qualifying final),” Hannebery said.
“They’re an outstanding footy side all over the park. I think it’s been well spoken about, their forward line and ball movement. I’d say they’re similar, if not better, than GWS at times in the way they move the ball.
“We’re under no illusions what they’re going to bring.”
Adelaide was well served by their forward line in last weekend’s elimination final against North Melbourne with Eddie Betts, Josh Jenkins, Tom Lynch and Taylor Walker amassing 14 goals between them to help bury the Roos by 62 points.
On Saturday however they’ll come up against a defensive unit which, despite being humbled by GWS’ forwards on Saturday, was the league’s best at the end of the home and away season having conceded an average of only 66 points.
While reassuring, Hannebery said the Swans’ defence didn’t just start and stop with the back six.
“(Adelaide) has got one of the best forward lines in the competition,” Hannebery added.
“Certainly against GWS, and against Adelaide this week, our defence is going to be put under some serious pressure.
“We need to make sure we support them as a midfield and forward line to try and limit the supply to their dangerous forward line.
“We're confident we can rectify and put in a good performance this week.”
Hosting Saturday night’s semi final at the SCG will help given the Sydney Swans have restricted oppositions sides to an average of 57 points at the their spiritual home.
They boast a strong record at the venue, having only lost twice by less than a goal during the regular season.
