Swans to turn tide on Collingwood

Whilst Collingwood has a terrific recent record over the Swans, Sydney is starting to hit its straps.

Sure, The Pies beat Sydney only a fortnight ago, but Paul Roos is the master of player management and has some terrific names coming back, such as Barry Hall.

Another player returning is Lewis Roberts-Thomson. Who would’ve thought we’d be signing his praises a couple of years ago. He was the ugly duckling, but he’s now terribly important for their team balance.

I wrote in my Hawthorn v Adelaide preview that the Crows were very good at stoppages, clearances and lockdowns. Sydney are the masters. Collingwood will rely on getting plenty of run off the half back line. The Pies need Shaw, O’Brien and Lockyer to set it up for them.

The ruck is also an issue for Collingwood. Josh Fraser is underdone, Prestigiacomo is hurt, while Clement was out for a while but has been slowly coming back into form. Everitt and Jolly have been terrific for Sydney, especially Everitt.

This shapes as a mismatch.

Without doubt, the barometer for the Pies is Anthony Rocca. If Rocca can state his authority and kick a few, they’ll be in the hunt. If he has an off night though, it’s bye bye Collingwood. Against Sydney, I can’t see him being the dominant factor the Pies need him to be.

I’m tipping Sydney to win by 23 points.

Share This Post!