SYDNEY Swans defender Jeremy Laidler has sent a warning to cross-town rivals Greater Western Sydney - and the rest of the competition – saying the Swans intend on taking their defensive intensity to even higher levels.
The Swans smashed Port Adelaide by 48-points on the road last week with the Power unable to withstand the visitors' high-pressure style of footy.
Port had more disposals and inside-50s than the Swans, but lost the tackle count, and crumbled under the fanatical pressure applied all over the ground by the winners.
Coach John Longmire has often preached the need for all 22 of his players to have an influence on the game defensively, and this was highlighted by key forwards Lance Franklin and Kurt Tippett, who laid eight tackles each.
Laidler admits the Giants have the runners to hurt the Swans, if Leon Cameron’s men are allowed too much freedom.
"We're still looking to make that an even bigger focus, and we pride ourselves on that. They've got some really good players and we'll have to be on our game to shut them down," Laidler said.
"If our pressure is not up to it, they'll run away with the game, so we'll have to be on our toes from the start and make sure they don't get hold of the footy."
Laidler struggled to hold a regular spot in the seniors at both Geelong and Carlton, but is now a regular in the Swans' backline and is enjoying playing alongside swingman Sam Reid.
"We've got a good mix of players who can play tall or small," he said.
"Sam was great on the weekend, and his ability to go from (Justin) Westhoff to a (Jake) Neade or Angus Monfries, it's great for the team."
Giant Jeremy Cameron – who was quiet in his side's round two victory over Melbourne - looms as the biggest worry for Laidler and his defensive unit in Saturday's derby at the SCG.
The Giants have plenty of goal scoring options - Dylan Shiel, Devon Smith and Stephen Coniglio all kicked multiple goals against the Demons.
"Jeremy Cameron is in some great form and he's a quality player. (Cam) McCarthy is going well down there, he's played a few games now, and they've got some really dangerous small forwards too," Laidler said.
