Assistant coach John Blakey assesses the stand-out players for sydneyswans.com.au. In no particular order they are:
Josh Kennedy - Josh has added some size and strength around the stoppages. He has clean hands and rarely fumbles. He covers the ground well and looks like he will really compliment our midfield this year.
Heath Grundy - Heath patrolled centre half back and set up many attacking plays going forward. He has developed as a key position defender. He was very good in the one-on-one marking contest today and looks set for a big year.
Lewis Jetta - Lewis showed his class today with both his speed and skill. He kicked a lovely goal in the first quarter and set up a couple more scoring opportunities throughout the game. The key forwards are lining up to take him out to lunch!
Benny McGlynn - Ben worked as hard as anyone on the field and showed he is going to be a great asset to the side this year. Played as a half-forward/mid and defender today, using his footy smarts and competitiveness to find plenty of the ball.
Brett Kirk - Kirky had to be the most disappointed player on the field today as the game involved no tackling and was penalised early as he just couldn't help himself. The umpire (me) copped a mouthful but in all seriousness, the co-captain is ticking along nicely.
Trent Dennis-Lane - Trent played forward and slipped his opponent on numerous occasions. Showed that he is very elusive and has a turn of speed to really chase and apply pressure. May be a surprise packet this year. Trent kicked two goals and two behinds.
Byron Sumner - Byron just knows how to find the footy. Played very well through the midfield, doesn't get flustered under pressure and takes the right option with his disposal. Byron adds genuine leg speed to the side.
Shane Mumford - Shane continued his good form in the ruck, he is very mobile for a big man and has fitted in well. Shane loves to compete and set up the midfielders under his feet. The big Mummy said Jarrad McVeigh had a sore throat after the game.
What impresses about Blakey’s list is the number of new faces who feature, however he also added, “A few of our regulars also performed well.”
No injuries came out of the game and for the majority of players, they have really earned next week's break.
