As the sun sets on the Swans’ brilliant win against Port Adelaide, sydneyswans.com.au takes a closer look at the hot topics surrounding Saturday’s cross-town derby at the SCG.
Footy returns to the SCG.
The Swans return to the hallowed turf of the SCG on Saturday. The players are up and about, so too are the fans with a big crowd expected to fill the stadium.
The Swans love hosting the Giants, with our two hit outs at the venue ending on a good note including in 2013 when we defeated the Giants by 129 points.
Lance Franklin, on the back of a three-goal performance against the Power, averages four goals a game on the SCG so look for Buddy to have an impact while young Isaac Heeney will gain a taste of what playing football at home feels like.
Can the young Giants bring their best?
GWS served it up to Melbourne after half-time last weekend to boot 14 consecutive goals at Canberra’s StarTrack Oval.
Assistant coach Josh Francou said earlier in the week the Giants were a different side to yesteryear and have developed into a group of “50 to 60-game” talents who are expected to lay down the challenge.
Can the Swans maintain their relentless pressure?
The Swans relentless pressure against Port Adelaide last round has been a hot topic this week with the tackle count finishing at 76-52.
It was a ferocious attack on the contest from the playing group with the coach encouraging the players to look towards continued improvement.
Kurt Tippett and Lance Franklin led the way against the Power with eight tackles a piece providing important forward pressure to lock the ball in the forward 50.
How will the team shape up?
With very few injuries and a team in form it will be interesting to see if there are any changes to the team to face GWS in Round 3.
Ben McGlynn made a successful return in the NEAFL win over Ainslie last weekend and has put his name up as a contender to return to the team.
Harry Cunningham was unlucky to be omitted from the team last week and is also a chance of a return.
All will be revealed when the team is announced at 6.25pm on Thursday night.