Rhyce Shaw’s coaching career began in emphatic style on Saturday with a huge win against Brisbane in the opening round of the NEAFL season.
A five-goal-to-one opening term set the tone with the far superior Swans dominating at Burpengary for the entire game, never easing despite the hot conditions to run out 122-point victors.
Ben McGlynn’s class shined. He collected 21 disposals and kicked a goal while building his match fitness to help lead the 25.12 (162) to 5.10 (40) win and press his case for senior selection.
The star of the show up forward was QBE Sydney Swans Academy top-up Matt Wilson.
The small forward booted five goals while senior-listed James Rose, Jordan Dawson and Abe Davis chipped in with three goals apiece.
Shaw, who played six seasons alongside McGlynn during his playing career, lauded his former teammate’s work rate.
“Benny took another step," Shaw said. “He had his 20-odd possessions but also finished with nine tackles. He's getting back to the Benny McGlynn that we know."
Shaw had an even spread of contributors in a side that continued to impact the scoreboard throughout the match, the margin blowing out as the Swans hammered home 14 goals to two in the second half.
Harry Marsh won a team-high 26 possessions playing across half-back while Jack Hiscox (23 touches, two goals), Jordan Foote (23) and Nic Newman (22) were also solid.
“It all stemmed from our pressure. The boys' pressure was immense, they stood up and made the most of our opportunities," Shaw added.
"Brisbane's possessions were under pressure, a lot of them ineffective. When we got it, we used it well, moved it forward quickly, caught them out of position and kicked goals.
"You could have put 12 players in the best."
With a strong first-up win under his belt, Shaw will now turn his attention to next weekend's clash against cross-town rivals GWS at Marrickville's Henson Park.
NEAFL Lions 1.4 3.5 5.9 5.10 (40)
NEAFL Swans 5.2 11.6 18.8 25.12 (162)
Goals: M. Wilson 5, A. Davis 3, J. Dawson 3, J. Rose 3, J. Hiscox 2, T. Nankervis 2, L. Behagg 2, K. Galloway 2, B. McGlynn, R. Hebron, N. Reinhard
