The Sydney Swans reserves side have had a solid hit-out against Port Adelaide in Adelaide on Friday afternoon.
With the Swans travelling party in South Australia for two days before heading to Cairns, the reserves side travelled to Alberton Oval to take on the Power.
The two sides played 16v16 in 3x20 minute thirds with the young Swans defeated by 18 points.
Development Coach Jeremy Laidler said his side were ‘up and down’.
“We had moments where we moved the ball really well and defended really well,” Laidler said.
“There’s definitely some areas for improvement, there was just a little bit of slow reaction in transition, so we will look at that.”
Young duo Dylan Stephens and Chad Warner were energetic in the midfield alongside some more experienced heads.
“Those two have been really good in there, they are trying to put their best foot forward to play seniors,” Laidler said.
“It was really good having senior bodies in Lewy Taylor and Sam Gray to help them and steer them around a bit too.
“Chad’s work contest to contest is a real key for him and Dylan’s work away from the contest was pleasing.”
Tall forward Hayden McLean provided a target up forward with the 21-year old booting three goals.
“Hayden has worked really hard the last couple of weeks and is kicking some really good goals and that’s on the back of his work ethic,” Laidler said.
“Today he kicked straight, he was a bit off last week, but he’s getting quite a few shots which is good.”
Today’s game also marked Michael Knoll’s return with the ruckman sidelined the last few months due to a PCL injury sustained in June.
“Knollsy played predominantly forward but also in the ruck. He got through his first game back ok and had some really good contests,” Laidler said.
Defender Kaiden Brand also clocked more match minutes as he continues his return from a groin injury.
“Brandy was really strong down back and positioned himself well and took some really strong marks against some quality forwards,” Laidler said.
With the 2020 season being a very different look for the reserves side with no official competition in place, Laidler only had compliments for his side and their positive attitudes.
“It’s been unique but the boys haven’t made any excuses and it’s been really pleasing,” Laidler said.
“Their mindset in all the scrimmages we have been playing has been super. Whether it’s a young player trying to get into the senior team or an older guy looking to get back in, their mindset and attitude has been really good which is pleasing.”
The Club would like to thank Port Adelaide for today’s contest, especially being so accommodating and letting us borrow two players for the 16 v 16 scrimmage.
