Sydney’s Buddy plan is working

THE formula that helps Sydney’s fresh-faced forwards find their feet at AFL level so quickly is simple: strong leadership and the tutelage of legend Lance Franklin.

Franklin returned from a bruised heel last weekend and will spearhead the Swans’ push for a top-four spot tomorrow when they face Brisbane at the Gabba. However, the superstar’s three-week absence wasn’t the cause for crisis that many predicted.

Sydney recorded away wins over Geelong and Hawthorn in that stretch with Will Hayward, 19, kicking three goals in each game. Ben Ronke, in his third match, booted seven against the Hawks.

Brisbane will line up unchanged against Sydney while a freak injury means the Swans will be without Callum Mills for the rest of the season.

The Swans say Mills was throwing an American football with teammates on the way back from a cafe yesterday when he tripped and fell, breaking his foot.

The AFL’s Rising Star in 2016, Mills has played every game for the Swans this year.

Gold Coast and Port Adelaide have the bye after playing in Shanghai last week.