THE SYDNEY Swans now sit alongside West Coast at the top of the tree, but John Longmire won't let the impressive 37-point victory against Hawthorn be blown out of proportion.

Given their ability to control the stoppages and outpoint the much-vaunted Hawks midfield for contested ball and clearances, there's much to like about Longmire's hard-headed outfit.

But despite opposite number Alastair Clarkson's glowing praise - he said the Swans were an outstanding side and would be hard to beat all season - Longmire was keeping things in perspective.

"We've got off to a good start and I've said it before this game and I'll say it after the game, it's a good start and that's all it is," he said.

"We're really pleased with today's win, really pleased … but the reality of AFL footy is we'll review the game tomorrow and get up and get into the next game on Saturday."

While his players managed to turn the tide with a number of positional victories in the second half, Longmire believed the key to the four premiership points was as simple as winning more ball in the air and on the ground.

"There was just a couple of structural things but mainly in the first half we were minus 13 in contested possessions and in the second half we were plus 18.

"Once you get your hands on the footy, I know it's obvious but it makes a big difference. Once we were able to do that we were able to get the game on our terms and I thought the players, in the second half, were sensational."