2009 NAB Cup Game Notes – Sydney Swans v Port Adelaide Power

The first thing the NAB Cup series does is remind us of one thing – Sydney Swans and preseason football do not mix. First up for this year’s bye was Port Adelaide, although they did have to travel to Manuka Oval for the experience. The Swans had a lot of new blood on display, while the Power were looking to kick start their season after a disappointing 2008.

Consider their season kick started – a 143-78 shellacking put the Power through to round 2, and still telling us very little about the Swans. My gut feel is that the Swans are on a slippery downward slope – however you can’t read anything into their NAB Cup form … ever.

For full match overviews, check out the reports from Real Footy and AFL.com.au. Get your AFL Dream Team scores at FanFooty.

Port stalwart Warren Tredrea looked much sharper in this game than in his ordinary year last year, kicking 3 goals and generally giving Swan Nick Smith the run around … maybe the big Port spearhead isn’t done with just yet.

Travis Boak had 20 disposals and 5 marks in a solid game through the midfield … Boak is one younger player many have tipped for a breakout year this season, so this showing will further enhance those predictions.

Brett Ebert‘s form has plateaued over the last couple of years, with his kicking for goal becoming a noticeable downfall to his game … again he was inaccurate kicking 1.3 in 9 disposals being minded by Ted Richards … this was the type of game you would expect someone like Ebert to bob up with 4 or 5 … is it fair to say his career is somewhat at the crossroads?

Port’s greatest attribute – their pace – was on display in perfect conditions, with the likes of Danyle Pearce, Peter Burgoyne, the Motlops, and youngsters Wade Thompson and Nathan Krakouer all displaying the flashes of speed and brilliance that make Port Adelaide one of the better front runners in the comp. This doesn’t look set to change in a hurry, however the Power will be looking to rectify their poor performances when things aren’t going their way.

Of the Power youngsters … No. 4 draft pick Hamish Hartlett played limited minutes off half back but still managed 10 disposals … Jason Davenport was subbed into the game after half time and had a huge final term as he pushes for a regular spot after time with Geelong in the VFL … Danny Meyer (formerly from the Tigers) showed a bit with his 12 touches … Wade Thompson was electrifying across half forward with 3 goals including an absolute ripsnorter.

Not a lot of positives to report for the Swans, however they were missing big names such as Barry Hall, Leo Barry (although he could be gone for a while), Nick Malceski and of course the recently departed Tadhg Kennelly and Peter Everitt.

Jarrad McVeigh again shone for the Swans and showed why he was the most improved player in the competition last season. He kicked 4 goals from 16 touches playing on Dom Cassisi, and in typical hard working fashion he notched up 5 tackles. Don’t let his weary appearance confuse you – McVeigh only turns 24 this season and may well be the most underrated player in the competition.

Former Magpie Rhyce Shaw showed much of what he was capable of at Collingwood, dashing around the half back line for his 16 disposals. Kennelly’s departure has opened up more space for Shaw in the back half, although he may also get time through the midfield as the season progresses. A change of scenery might be just what Shaw needed to make something of his career so keep an eye on him.

Of the Swans youngsters … all eyes were on the big Canadian Mike Pyke, but on his limited effort he still looks a long, long way off – despite comments from Paul Roos he’s in the mix for the backup ruckman role … Brett Meredith was subbed on after half time and was one of the few shining lights of the young Swan brigade with an impressive 3rd term … Ed Barlow took 5 grabs up forward but was goalless … Ryan Brabazon was stretchered off in the 3rd term after hitting his head on the ground after a shepherd … Kieren Jack tagged Danyle Pearce and looks set to maintain a similar role to last year … Jesse White wasn’t bad switching from defence to attack and with his size he looks like he should see some action in 2009 … first round draft pick Lewis Johnston was not unleashed.

Dream Team Watch:

Travis Boak (369k) has a big vibe on him this year throughout the DT world, and if you were keen on him he did nothing to dissuade you first up. (81).

The Cornes brothers, Chad (379k) and Kane (437k) both eased themselves into the new season, especially Kane who was subbed off at half time. Chad started forward and then drifted back to finish with 49. He will be strongly picked in backlines with his price down due to his injury-interrupted season last year, and looks good value. Kane was tagging O’Keefe and was subbed off with only 33, however he has been a keeper in midfields for years and this year should be no different.

Jason Davenport (86k) showed plenty, especially in the last quarter, to indicate that as a mature age recruit, he is ready for AFL football. Keep a close eye on him, because if he can get into the starting 22, he looks a no-brainer rookie selection. (43)

A quick word of advice on the Swans … they are traditionally a very dirty Dream Team side, and this year looks more of the same. Their younger players look your best bet this season, with cheapies like Jesse White, Patrick Veszpremi a better option than spending big dollars on their more established players.

Rhyce Shaw (386k) is one name who has been thrown around as a likely improver especially with the cheap half back role open for him, however his value is definitely hurt by the fact he is only listed as a midfielder. He’s not the worst option but he is Rhyce Shaw – caveat emptor. (74)

Darren Jolly (329k) is another popular Swan as it looks he has the ruck department all to himself – however that lack of support may actually become a hindrance as he has to shoulder such a heavy load. (55)

Leading point scorers for the Swans with 83 were Ryan O’Keefe (381k) and Jarrod McVeigh (372k) – most of O’Keefe’s came in junk time, which isn’t a bad thing because you like to see your players still trying their guts out when the game is lost … McVeigh looks to have some value if his improvement continues (which I think it should) … although if last year turns out to be a fluke I may well be ducking for cover…