The running battle continued at Sydney Swans training on Monday between Ed Barlow and Nathan Gordon.

Throughout pre-season training the players have been put through a series of tests and today was the 1km time trial.

It is the second time this pre-season that they have been required to do the run and whilst Barlow has now won it both times, Gordon fought hard for the top spot.

A modest Barlow wasn’t concerned with where he placed, “It wasn’t about where I finished today but just to see my time improve from our first run and to know my fitness is improving is what I was happy with.

“Nipper (Gordon) wasn’t as close today as he usually is, he can be annoying at times, but it is good we are pushing each other.”

Dan Hannebery crossed the line in third, Jarrad McVeigh in fourth and Brett Kirk in fifth. There were however two usual front runners missing from today’s line-up, Ryan O’Keefe and Rhyce Shaw, who were rested.

Given it was the second time the players have been timed, it allowed the fitness staff to work out who the improvers where since their first trial six weeks ago.

Top of the list was Adam Goodes, taking 11 seconds off his time. Jarrad McVeigh and Martin Mattner beat their time by 10 seconds, whilst front-runner Barlow and Jake Orreal took 9 seconds off their previous times.

“Throughout pre-season Ed and Nathan have jostled for the number one spot, and given the improvement we saw in Ed’s time today, you can see the competition is beneficial,” Elite Performance Coach Rob Spurrs said.

“We were pleased with the way the group ran overall and it is obviously pleasing to see the improvement come from a range of different players.”

The next test for the players is a shuttle run on Friday.

You can come and see the team train... Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays* from 9am at Lakeside Oval, opposite the Sydney Swans offices on Driver Avenue, Moore Park.

*Please note, pre-season training times are subject to change and can be confirmed one day prior by phoning Sydney Swans reception on 02-9339 9123.