Small forward Ben McGlynn took positive steps towards senior selection following a standout performance in the Swans’ commanding first round NEAFL win against Ainslie on Saturday.
McGlynn, returning to competitive football for the first time in weeks, gathered 20 disposals (seven contested) in the Swans’ victory over the Tricolours at Canberra’s Alan Ray Oval.
McGlynn looked trouble-free in his return from a hamstring strain suffered in the Swans’ first NAB Challenge game on March 6.
The 29-year-old, on managed game time, started strongly to collect 14 touches in the opening half before taking the foot off the pedal as the Swans took complete control of the contest.
After absorbing Ainslie’s pressure in the opening half, the Swans upped the ante after the main break to lead by 26 points at three-quarter-time. The visitors then sealed the deal with six goals to one in a dominant final term.
McGlynn had plenty of support in Tom Mitchell, George Hewett and Dan Robinson among others within the on-ball division who moved the ball quickly and effectively around the ground.
The Swans’ tall timber at both ends bookended the impressive display, in particularly defenders Xavier Richards and Aliir Aliir.
The duo held strong in defence, combining for 16 marks (seven contested) and 10 rebounds, while limiting the impact of Ainslie spearhead Josh Bennett.
“It was really good for the boys to get a win and kick the season off like that,” Richards said.
“Our intensity went up after quarter-time, our pressure and hit on the ball was especially good and went a long way to us winning the game.
“There are still plenty of areas we need to improve on though.”
Key forward Sean McLaren was a handy target to finish with four goals while Toby Nankervis and Sam Naismith rotated well between the ruck (52 hit outs) and full-forward line (three goals each).
The Swans NEAFL side will now turn their on next weekend’s AFL curtain-raiser against UWS Giants at the SCG.
Summary
Swans 3.3 6.8 10.10 16.12 (108)
Ainslie 1.3 3.10 5.14 6.15 (51)
Swans Goals: McLaren 4, Naismith, Nankervis 3, Rose 2, Richards, Foster, Taylor, Sertbas
Swans Best: Mitchell, Aliir, Naismith, McGlynn, Jones, Richards
