SYDNEY Swans co-captain Craig Bolton says the side is confident of being a finals contender but has cautioned against believing the growing hype surrounding the side’s promising form.
“That's people on the outside spruiking,” he said.
“We've had detractors in the past and people who've pumped us up. So we've just got to keep a level head and know what we're capable of.”
“In Sydney up here we really don't take too much attention [of the talk].”
The Swans have won their last three games going into this weekend's clash with West Coast at Subiaco. The resurgent Bloods sit in fifth spot with six wins, three losses and a draw.
“We've said all along we're confident of being a contender this year and to be right up there. So if we tick all the boxes and do the right thing we're going to be every chance,” Bolton said.
Nevertheless, he paid tribute to his fellow defenders who've helped the side to have the best defence in the competition.
“We do get a lot of credit for our defensive record, but the upfield pressure too, the forward line and midfield have to take some of the credit.”
The run out of defence has also added a fresh dimension to the Swans backline.
Marty Mattner's performances have fans salivating at the prospect of the former Crow, a fully fit Tadhg Kennelly and Nick Malceski bursting out of defence in the second half of the season.
Mattner's 183 disposals in 10 rounds attest to his contribution so far. “Marty has been terrific – a great pick-up and we're just pinching ourselves that we could get him so cheap,” Bolton said.
"Defensively, obviously, but also as an attacker he's been one of the best players in the competition.”
The Swans fly out of a cold and rainy Sydney on Wednesday under no illusions about the task against West Coast on Saturday night.
“They'll want to bounce back after last week [a 100-point loss to Collingwood]. They've still got some real quality players,” Bolton said.
“It's one of the best places to play, Subiaco, the crowd's right up against you and it's a pretty hostile reception over there.”
The Swans' traditional late-season bloom has arrived earlier than usual, a fact acknowledged by the former Brisbane Lion.
Bolton said he didn’t believe the team had peaked too early.
“Everyone's fit and well, and it's been very beneficial having a good pre-season behind us. And we're getting a few players back on the park.”
That includes Barry Hall, with the spearhead set to return next week against the Saints after suspension and injury following the Swans' round-four clash against the Eagles.
