SWANS 21.25.151, Eagles 0.0.0
Ball use by the Swans was first class from the opening ruck tap, as were the communication levels. The ability and desire to run and find space was outstanding, and the Eagles had no answer - even after rearranging their structures at half time. Every Swans player lifted to another level in third quarter, it will be important to remember the total domination in the second half and use that experience in challenging games ahead.
Jarrod Mickan set the tone for the day with a wonderful run and clearance from CHB within the first 25 seconds of the game. From then on, it was a relentless stream of center clearances and forward entries. When the Eagles did manage to get the ball forward into their scoring end, it was repelled and cleared with textbook defence and run out of the back line.
The Canadian boys were outstanding. Trevor Jamieson took several strong marks and linked up nicely with the center and wings, and Jake Plunkett-Latimer was back to playing his best football. Up forward Kyle Provost and Greg Bridges have found their rightful positions with some excellent contributions on the scoreboard. Jordan Harcombe ran out the whole 80 minutes in the ruck in a totally dominant display. Ronan Shaugnhessy had another outstanding game providing run from half back and even snuck a goal of his own in too. Bogdan Rotaru picked up plenty of touches in another very consistent performance.
The onballers were unstoppable all day, with both Tom Stafford and Daniel Robinson getting countless touches, and Matthew Powell again controlling the center beautifully. Up forward Mike Kozlowski and Darren Roffey continued to show their class and Greg Simpson chipped in with his first major for the red and white. Brendan Woods ran with the Eagles’ most dangerous player all day and did an outstanding tagging job. Jordan Strahan was again very strong in the air and had a couple of wonderful goals as well, giving us another glimpse into his bag of tricks.
The back six in defense should never forget the day they kept a men’s senior side scoreless for a whole game.
Thanks go to the Eagles for playing the game with good sportsmanship, and for turning up to the Swans’ sponsor pub (St Louis Bar & Grill) after the game for a few drinks.
Ottawa Swans continue their march towards the AFLO 2014 finals this weekend at the RCR. Both the Ladies and Men will play the Etobicoke Kangaroos. Games start at 1.
Last Modified on 24/07/2014 00:48