Luke Parker insists there is not any psychological scarring affecting his Sydney facet as they journey to face Geelong for the primary time since their AFL grand remaining bloodbath.
The Swans skipper, who was within the lineup for that 81-point thrashing by the Cats final September, declared they have been eager to get Saturday’s contest out of the best way and put speak of the decider behind them as they construct a case for a shot at redemption.
“Going down to Geelong is a tough match in itself … the history of what happened last year, I’m sure it might spur the boys on a bit,” Parker mentioned.
“But for us, it’s about continuing to perform to the ability we can and trying to get those runs on the board early in the season.
“It was at all times going to come back up at some stage … we’re simply excited to move down there and play in opposition to the most effective group within the competitors.
“They had a slow start, but just their experience in general, the quality football we know they can play, that’s what we’re preparing for.”
Parker mentioned the Swans felt no additional strain to place in a robust efficiency this weekend and exorcise any demons, trying to proceed an above-average 3-2 begin to the brand new marketing campaign.
“You have to put in a strong performance every week … what’s happening with the competition, if you’re off that one per cent, anyone can beat anyone,” he mentioned.
“It’s a big challenge, no doubt we’ve still got some players out and some young boys who probably it might be their first time down at the Cattery. … it’s always a challenge down there.
“The approach the boys are enjoying exhibits we’re enjoying within the second and we’re able to have one other crack.”
The big task facing the Swans is finding the right matchups for the in-form Geelong power forward duo of Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins, the former particularly lighting up the competition with 22 goals in five games this year.
Sydney won’t have either Paddy or Tom McCartin (both concussion), while Dane Rampe will train on Thursday and attempt to prove his fitness after a neck issue.
Nick Blakey would likely take one job while Parker suggested Robbie Fox was another who might be called upon, although winning the midfield battle would be crucial to cutting off the duo’s supply of possession.
“Jezza (Cameron) is on fireplace in the meanwhile, kicking luggage of targets each week,” he mentioned.
“We’ve bought a system in place we actually belief and regardless of who comes into the group, we predict that stands up.
“I’m not sure who gets that role …. no doubt we’ll put some time into him and those boys will be relishing the challenge.
“If the ball is coming in too simply, it is giving them loads of alternative … in the event that they get the ball inside 50 and it is coming in scrappy, it offers them an opportunity.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
