Swans midfielder Josh Kennedy says there’s plenty on the line in Saturday’s clash with GWS – and not just the precious double chance.
For the first time in eight encounters, both teams have something at stake with the Swans vying for a top four spot and double chance while GWS is battling for the chance to partake in its maiden finals series.
Kennedy says aside from the obvious, “bragging rights” are also on the line given the ever-increasing fierceness of the Sydney derby.
NEWS: Swans wary of Giants midfield
“I feel there’s always been something to play for with the rivalry that’s been built up over time and wanting to have bragging rights over each other,” Kennedy said, standing alongside GWS’ Ryan Griffin on Tuesday.
“This game, in the context of the season, certainly for us, is really important. We want a top four spot and we have to win every game from here on in to get that and need things to go our way obviously with the teams ahead of us.”
Kennedy also talked up the Giants’ impressive season to date and improved midfield group of which the Bob Skilton Medallist will have to oppose at Spotless Stadium.
And there’s the matter of the last game at the old Showgrounds when the Giants shock but well deserved 32-point victory.
For the first time all season Kennedy will run out without fellow midfielder Luke Parker after the reigning Club Champion fractured his ankle against Collingwood last weekend.
In what threatened to be a season-ending injury, news soon filtered through that Parker could be back in as little as four weeks which was a huge relief to teammates.
“It was obviously shattering, especially when he went down you couldn’t help but think worst case scenario,” Kennedy added.
“But to get the news that it will be only 4-5 weeks is really good for him.
“From a team’s perspective we can’t dwell on it too much, we have to as best we can get around him with a win this weekend and give ourselves the best chance to continue late in the year.
“Who knows, he might be back if we give him a chance so that’s got to be our focus now.”
