SWANS MARCH ON WITH WIN OVER CROWS
Sydney boasted a 25-point lead at quarter-time, having piled on 7.3 (45).
It was the club’s highest score in the opening term of a final and as many goals as they managed in four quarters at ANZ Stadium last week.
The Crows lifted but had left themselves with too much to do, especially after defenders Jake Lever and Daniel Talia were hurt in the opening half. Lever failed to return after half-time. Talia played on but was clearly restricted by a groin injury.
Isaac Heeney, one of many Swans youngsters to struggle against GWS, produced the greatest game of his short ca- reer. He tallied 32 disposals, while midfielders Luke Parker, Dan Hannebery and Josh Kennedy were also magnifi- cent contributors for the hosts.
Franklin, held goal-less by the Giants last week, kicked 2.2 in the first quarter including a trademark Buddy show stopper from beyond the 50m arc. that split the middle.
Franklin finished with four goals and at the other end, Sydney’s defence did a fine job on the league’s most potent forward line.
Adelaide aces Eddie Betts, Taylor Walker, Tom Lynch and Josh Jenkins combined for seven goals.
The goals and rotations dried up for both teams after quarter-time but the contest remained gripping.
Every time the visitors threatened the Swans steadied.
The Crows reduced the margin to 19 points late in the third term when Betts slotted his second goal.
Papley snapped a near-instant reply at the other end. Papley delivered another two clutch goals in the final quar- ter, with one coming after teammate Ben McGlynn was floored by a high bump from Crows ruckman Sam Jacobs.