2025 appeared to be going OK with honourable defeats at the hands of Hawthorn and Brisbane and good wins against Freo and North. But they have hit a road block against a rampant Collingwood and a poor game against Port Adelaide, our nemesis. Fumbles, careless handballs and wild kicking have not helped. It has caused most supporters to wonder where the club is going at the moment. A failed grand final, a new coach and a new game plan have made it difficult.
I haven’t seen signs of a grand final hangover but developing a more defensive game plan supported by fast movement when possible. The shadow covering the team is the number of long term injuries- McDonald, McInerney, Mills and Melacon will soon be available but Gulden, Papley, Fox, Adams and Cunningham will be a bit longer (6 weeks away). Opportunities have arisen for Sheldrick, Ladhams, Bice, Paton, Hamling, Cleary, Corey Warner and Hanily. They have done well, considering their lack of experience, and are learning which provides options for the future. The pressure is on the experienced players and they have been OK but could do more.
Team structure has been an issue for the past two seasons. A tall backman and a key forward are lacking. How they overcome these weaknesses will be fascinating to see. It may well be a ricketty ride for the rest of the season or a year of development.
To Swans supporters, strap in tightly and enjoy the ride. It should be a very interesting year.
To read more by Richard Davis click HERE.
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