But that’s exactly the situation the Swans are now in after their 38-point win over the Brisbane Lions secured them a home elimination final, to be played next Sunday September 5 at ANZ Stadium, at 2.40pm.
Swans coach Paul Roos made sure the players were aware of the magnitude of their achievement thus far, especially given their run of four losses in six weeks a month ago and the injury toll they have faced.
“I mentioned that to the players after the game, I think it’s been an amazing effort, given we have had so many players out," Roos said.
“We have certainly had a lot of players who have lifted their form individually over the past four weeks, and that obviously makes a huge difference.”
After Hawthorn’s victory over Collingwood earlier in the day, the task facing the Swans was simple - win and they would earn themselves a home final.
Their first-half showing was that of a team that was not playing for such high stakes, and Roos was relieved that the destiny of the Swans was in their hands.
“In a sense it was good that we had something to play for. If Hawthorn had not won, who knows how the second half would have gone,” Roos said.
“The fact that we did have a fair bit to play for meant the players did lift because the stakes were so high, which was a positive.”
Roos told his players at half time to focus on what they had been doing well throughout their three-game winning run.
“We just talked about doing the things we have been doing well over the last three weeks, which is pressure and tackling. I thought in the second half we lifted in that area and that was the difference in the game.”
The Swans were forced to make some late changes, which gave Sam Reid the opportunity to make his debut, and Roos was pleased with the youngster.
“He has been on the cusp of playing, but we have been reluctant to play him, because it is his first year,” Roos said.
“It’s a bit unusual (making your debut) in round 22 going into a finals series, but he certainly responded and played really well.
“It’s good that he has got a taste of footy this year.”
Daniel Bradshaw made his long awaited comeback through the reserves this week, and Roos was waiting to see how he pulled up before making judgement on his position in the team.
