Roos has Swans over the Giants
FORMER Sydney coach Paul Roos says the Swans’ proven performances in September will give them a slight edge in Saturday’s elimination final against GWS, but even he admits the contest is almost too close to call.
Sydney are playing in their ninth consecutive finals series and their 20th from the past 23 years. They have a proven formula for success that stands up to the cauldron of cutthroat matches and a stronger form line over the last month.
Roos, the Swans’ former premiership coach, has watched both teams closely over their journeys in recent seasons and said it’s hard to tip against Sydney’s experience and know-how.
“The Swans are confident because they’ve done it over and over again,” Roos said
Sydney have won both matches this year including the last contest at Spotless Stadium in round 22. Roos expects John Longmire to again negate the Giants’ strongest players, including All Australian Lachie Whitfield and midfield superstar Josh Kelly.
“The Swans did a great job taking away Whitfield off half back and Coniglio in the second half with George Hewett,” Roos said.
“It was a real one-on-one match and Leon was happy to test his players in that area because they’ve been so good there this year. It was a fascinating tactical battle.
“It changed when Davis went off and Buddy took over. Horse was trying to push Buddy deep and keep his half forwards high. Leon was trying to keep a roll off defenders to help Finlayson on Franklin. The game style suited the Swans.”
Josh Kelly missed the round 22 match after being concussed but will be back for Saturday’s clash and add another layer of depth to the Giants’ stellar midfield which includes names such as Callan Ward, Dylan Shiel, Stephen Coniglio, Jacob Hopper and Tim Taranto. George Hewett won’t be able to contain them all.
“You can get smashed in the face by how good their midfield is,” Roos said. “It’s helped the Swans that Kieren Jack and Dan Hannebery have got themselves into some form.”
Leon Cameron has as many as eight players who missed the round 23 match against Melbourne who could be available to play the Swans. Toby Greene, Zac Williams, Brett Deledio, Ryan Griffen, Aidan Corr, Sam Taylor, Matt de Boer and Matt Flynn are all likely to put their names up for selection.