Sydney Swans coach John Longmire and captain Josh Kennedy addressed the media at the SCG on Monday.
The Swans will face the Giants in an elimination final at the SCG on Saturday afternoon.
Here are some key quotes from the press conference.
Longmire: The availability of Lance Franklin, Luke Parker
“At the moment it looks like Lance and Luke will do a bit more on Tuesday and again on Thursday. If they get through that they’ll be available to play. We just need to see they’re able to get around and do what the medical staff want them to do, as far as run and change of direction – things they’re normally are required to do. So we’ll be looking for that and getting the tick off the medical staff.”
Longmire: The Giants’ strengths
“Whether it’s outside speed and run or winning contest ball on the inside, which Callan Ward and other guys are really good at, they’ve got an all-round balanced game. There’s no denying that. Their record over the past couple of years, with their preliminary finals, speaks for itself. They’re a very good balanced team inside and out. It’s our challenge to try and reduce their advantages but also play the game we want to play.”
Kennedy: Pre-finals bye
“The week off has been good. It’s good because it gives a couple of players a chance to get up. But we we’re certainly itching to get out there this week. The anxiety levels are starting to rise and the excitement is certainly there for Saturday.”
Kennedy: Preparing for high-stakes clash
“You prepare for a final. It doesn’t matter if it’s for a knock-out game or you’re in a top-four spot. You prepare to come up against great opposition, you prepare for a high-intensity game, you prepare for a big crowd, which will be fantastic, and that’s it. Nothing too much changes but the intensity certainly goes up a level.”