The Sydney Swans overcame a lethargic start to register their ninth win in a row with an 11-point victory over a determined Richmond outfit at the MCG on Friday night.
While not at their fluent best, the Swans were gritty when it counted and did enough in the final quarter to prevail 9.8 (62) to 7.9 (51). Superstar Sydney forward Lance Franklin had a torrid duel with Richmond defender Alex Rance throughout the match but still managed to conjure four goals.
Importantly, two of them came in the final term to give his team a match-winning buffer as the Tigers struggled to impact the scoreboard. It was a disappointing end for Richmond, who defied their lowly ladder position to blitz the visitors early.
The Tigers were up by three goals at quarter-time and still held a 14-point lead at the main break. Richmond captain Trent Cotchin was in everything on his way to collecting 22 disposals in two quarters, while forward Jack Riewoldt also enjoyed a strong start to have two goals by halftime.
But the Sydney machine clicked into gear when play restarted. Kieran Jack kicked the opening major of the third term before Sam Reid’s effort midway through the quarter drew the Swans level. Anthony Miles’ long-range bomb just before the siren ensured the Tigers led by one at the final change, but it would prove to be the home side’s last goal.
The Swans were able to close out the game, the victory temporarily lifting them to second on the AFL ladder. Franklin, who moved his season goal tally to 35, said his team had to scrap hard for the win.
“The contested ball was on from the start until the end, and we knew they were going to come like they did,” he told Channel Seven. “We had to really dig hard to get the four points today. It’s a solid win by the boys, so we walk away pretty happy with that.” Even though he finished on the losing side, Tigers midfielder Dustin Martin was arguably best on ground after racking up 36 disposals.
