The Sydney Swans kicked off their season with a 31-point victory over the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba in their season opening match of the 2021 season.
Forward Tom Papley celebrated his 100th AFL game milestone by kicking a goal in Sydney’s season opening victory and the lively forward said that there was plenty of belief and confidence amongst the squad heading into the match and the season ahead, however it was very much one game at a time.
Sydney faces a dangerous Adelaide Crows side in round two, with their opposition backing coming to the SCG after a 12-point victory over last year’s Grand Finalists, Geelong, to start their season.
“We have obviously been growing over the last couple of years and we are learning along the way but inside the four walls, we go out believing we can win and wanting to win the game,” Papley said on SEN 1170 this week.
“With our system we have been working on over the pre-season, it changed a little bit because of the new rules, and it was good to see all that work come together, but it was only one week so we have to back it up against Adelaide this week
“They did a similar thing, had a lot of energy and pressure and we are looking forward to that challenge.”
While the game saw Sydney forced to rally from being down a few goals early in the contest, Papley credited the side for not panicking through the Lions fast start.
“We didn’t panic when we were down 3-4 goals after the first few minutes. We slowly got back at the end of the first quarter and then we got another run on before they came back again,” Papley said.
“To come out in the third quarter, kicking nine goals, and putting the game away against a really good side in Brisbane is exciting, but it’s only one week and we know that.”
The Swans kicked off their season with a solid scoreboard total of 19.11.125 with Papley noting it has been a while since Sydney’s attack had kicked so many goals in the one game.
While the new rule changes have brought upon an increased tempo to the game, resulting in an increase of points scored, the forward also credited the addition of Don Pyke to the coaching staff which has seen Sydney’s attack develop.
“There was a lot more scoring, I think it’s a good thing for the game, and it was obviously a lot faster and a lot more attacking and you have to think about a way to stop it defensively which is a lot harder,” Papley said.
“We have looked at both sides of the game and Don Pyke has been really good at the attacking side of the game and looking at different ways we can move the ball, play fast, slow and change angles.”
Papley said the Swans will be looking to continue the momentum this week, when they make their long-awaited return to the SCG, with the entire squad excited about the addition of forward Lance Franklin.
“I am excited for this week, it’s good for footy in NSW that the fans are back and Bud is playing this week.”
“I can’t wait to see all the fans at the SCG cheering us on.
“It’s exciting for the group and exciting for the fans [to have Buddy return]. He missed all of last season and he is a big part of our group, brings a lot of energy, excitement and I can’t wait to run out there with him again.”
For all your information ahead of the Sydney Swans v Adelaide Crows clash, including details on tickets, your mobile membership card, transport, what's happening around the ground and more, visit our Match Day Hub.
To celebrate Buddy’s return, the Sydney Swans have a $23 ticket special for 23 hours.* Click here to purchase your tickets.
* A Service and Handling Fee of $6.90 may apply. Limit of 8 tickets per transaction. Offer valid for selected Category 5 seats ONLY. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Offer expires 3.59pm AEDT Friday March 25 unless sold out prior.
