In this week's Game Plan, Swans forward coach, John Blakey, talks about the developing forward line and the importance of tomorrow's game against the Brisbane Lions...
We have had some great wins over the last two weeks against the Saints, and most recently Geelong. The really pleasing thing has been seeing the team execute the game plan to great effect and bring back the intensity and attitude that is the trademark of our football Club. Our challenge now is to keep our foot down and that starts with Saturday’s match against the Brisbane Lions. Three weeks ago we came up against Richmond and played poorly, so it’s a fine line and it’s not something you can turn on and off. We need to make sure we turn up in the right frame of mind, ready to play our brand of football.
The forward line has taken on a a new look over the last few weeks with Jesse White and Matt Spangher joining Sam Reid and Adam Goodes, who has switched between forward and midfield. I think the structure has worked well and it has allowed our smaller players like Luke Parker and Gary Rohan to bob up and kick a few goals.
Jesse came back into the side when LRT was injured. He has performed quite well in that forward/ruck role. Jesse has got a hell of a lot of talent but has been inconsistent with his performance. We know he can play some great football. He is very fast, very strong, takes a good mark and generally kicks the ball well. At his best he can be very damaging.
Spang has helped Sam Reid in providing another target for us. With Spangher there, we have the ability to share the workload a little bit. His strength is providing a fierce contest for us and he brings his teammates into the game.
As for Goodesy, over the last month we have seen him in nearly career best form. We know he is an excellent player, but at 31 years of age you tend to think he might start slowing down a bit. But if you see the way he is able to break away from packs and pick up the ball at speed, he shows no signs of slowing up. It’s a real credit to the way he prepares and the way he looks after himself that he is still able to perform at that level.
This week, Club favourite Tadhg Kennelly decided to hang up the boots. His is a genuine fairy-tale story. To be able to come across from the other side of the world and play this game at the highest level is an outstanding achievement. He is a livewire around the club, is always great to be around and he will be sadly missed. Saturday’s match is a great opportunity for fans to come and see Tadhg one last time at the SCG.
In recent weeks the Lions have taken it up to top-four teams in the West Coast Eagles, Collingwood and Geelong. They’ve been in good form but just haven’t been able to get over the line. Their young players are really up and coming and showing some strong form.
If we don’t turn up with the same intensity that we have had against St Kilda and Geelong, then we are going to be in for a really tough battle. There is plenty on the line for our players. A win gives us a chance to host our first final here in Sydney.
