SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – – The Sydney Swans delivered a commanding performance against a depleted Western Bulldogs side in a pre-season match simulation at Whitten Oval on Thursday, winning 15.9 (99) to 9.12 (66). While pre-season results must be viewed with caution, the Swans showcased a promising glimpse of their potential, particularly with the seamless integration of new recruits Charlie Curnow and Malcolm Rosas.
The Bulldogs were significantly weakened by the absence of key players including Marcus Bontempelli, Sam Darcy, Ed Richards, and Aaron Naughton, all Origin representatives. Despite the disadvantage, the match provided valuable opportunities for younger players and those vying for a spot in the final squad.
Curnow, in his first unofficial appearance in a Sydney guernsey, immediately made an impact, booting four goals and demonstrating a clear connection with midfielder Errol Gulden. Former Sun, Malcolm Rosas, also impressed, contributing to a dynamic forward line alongside Logan McDonald, who also finished with four majors. The Swans’ attack appeared fluid and dangerous, suggesting a potent offensive threat for the upcoming season.
“Charlie Curnow has slotted into Sydney’s forward line with aplomb, booting four goals against the Bulldogs on Thursday,” reported Fox Sports. The connection between Curnow and Gulden was particularly noteworthy, with Gulden providing the assists for two of Curnow’s goals.
“That’s the combination they’ve been talking about all summer. Charlie’s eyes would have lit up just then, a sensational kick from Gulden,” commented former Swans star Dan Hannebery on the Kayo Sports broadcast. “That’s the combination that all Swans fans and coaches will be licking their lips over.”
The Swans’ offensive prowess wasn’t limited to Curnow and McDonald. Rosas, a pressuring goalsneak, also made an immediate contribution, kicking his first goal in Swans colors early in the game. Hannebery highlighted Rosas’s impact, stating, “He’s exactly what they’ve lacked a bit at times…His liveliness up forward, it’s got other players into the game.”
For the Bulldogs, Artie Jones emerged as a standout performer, kicking three goals and displaying a dynamic presence. Young ball-winner Ryley Sanders also showed promise, gaining valuable experience in extended inside midfield minutes. However, the Bulldogs struggled to match the Swans’ intensity and efficiency, particularly in the absence of their key personnel.
A concern for the Bulldogs arose when Bailey Dale reported knee soreness after a marking contest in the first quarter and was subsequently sidelined for the remainder of the match. While the club has indicated this was a precautionary measure, it remains a situation to monitor as the season approaches.
Beyond the individual performances, the match offered a glimpse into a potential shift in the Swans’ ball movement strategy. Hannebery suggested the team is aiming for a faster, more dynamic transition game, reminiscent of the “tsunami” style employed by the Greater Western Sydney Giants. “Looking at some of their training and speaking to a few insiders, I think they’re going to want to try and create more speed on the ball out of the back half,” Hannebery explained. “We’ve seen the Giants’ tsunami – it’s almost going to be a ‘Swans Surge’ this year, I believe.”
The Swans’ willingness to switch the play at every opportunity and move the ball quickly out of defense contributed to their dominance on Thursday. This approach, if consistently executed, could make them a formidable opponent in the upcoming AFL season.
The pre-season match also provided an opportunity for the Swans to assess the health and form of key players. McDonald, returning from injury, appeared to be moving well and contributing effectively in attack. The successful integration of Curnow and Rosas further bolsters the Swans’ forward options, creating a competitive environment within the squad.
As the AFL season draws closer, the Swans’ performance on Thursday offers a positive indication of their preparations. The seamless integration of new recruits, coupled with a potential shift in strategic approach, suggests a team poised for a strong campaign. For the Bulldogs, the match highlighted the importance of their key players and the need for depth as they navigate the challenges of the season ahead.
The Swans will next face Hawthorn in Round 1 on , while the Bulldogs will look to rebound against an opponent yet to be determined.
