1. Swans cruise into second spot
They really just ticked the box, but apart from a down third quarter, the Swans did all that could be expected of them to move into second spot with a comfortable win over Gold Coast. When the whips were cracking in the first half, their midfield dominated, the forwards took advantage and the defenders locked down on the odd occasion the ball got into their back 50. With an 8-2 record and five successive wins, the Swans are perfectly poised to take on North Melbourne next weekend before their bye.
2. May adds to Gold Coast's injury nightmare
Just when the Suns thought their injury curse couldn't get any worse, classy fullback Steven May hobbled off during the third quarter with a groin injury. May had been engaged in an enthralling duel with Swans superstar Lance Franklin before the setback, keeping Buddy to two goals at that point. Now he looks almost certain to miss against Fremantle next week. May's injury adds to a horror list that includes Gary Ablett, Jaeger O'Meara, David Swallow, Dion Prestia, Rory Thompson and Harley Bennell.
3. More boos for Goodes
A week after stirring debate following his 'war dance' celebration against Carlton, Adam Goodes was again the centre of attention at Metricon Stadium. From the moment the dual Brownlow medallist got his first touch, he was booed by sections of the 13,068 crowd. While the noise was somewhat lacklustre, Goodes responded the best way he knows how – with his play. After roving a forward 50 stoppage to snap a first quarter goal, he finished with 17 disposals, six marks and two goal assists to go along with his one major.
4. Tough debut for Two-Metre Peter
Peter Wright, Gold Coast's No.8 pick from last year's draft, had a difficult assignment in his first game, but acquitted himself well. Standing 203cm and 100kg, the strapping 18-year-old had Heath Grundy on him for much of the night and struggled to get a kick in the first half. He got on the scoreboard in the third quarter when Swans defender Dane Rampe picked him out perfectly directly in front and just 20 metres from goal. Wright probably did enough to keep his spot against Fremantle next week, but if nothing else, can say he had a better debut than Brisbane Lions champion Jonathan Brown, who finished without a stat in his first game.
Adam Goodes sings the winner's song after the Swans crushed the Suns. Picture: AFL Media
5. Dan the Man chalks up a career-high
From the first quarter, Swans midfielder Dan Hannebery looked on for a big match. The powerful 24-year-old had an incredible 17 disposals – as did Jarrad McVeigh – in the first quarter and barely slowed down. He finished with 42 for the match to equal his career best, set previously against West Coast in 2012 and Adelaide in 2013. He also had five clearances and five marks for good measure. McVeigh finished with 40 – the second most disposals in his decorated career.
