Stumbling Sydney regard Sunday’s clash with the new AFL kings of contested footy, Western Bulldogs, as the perfect test.
Beaten in three of their last four games after starting the season with five straight wins, Sydney (6-3) have skidded back to the field.
Losses to the Bulldogs at the SCG and against high-flying Essendon in Melbourne next Saturday would leave Sydney at 6-5 and battling to remain in the top eight at the season’s mid-point.
Following a narrow home loss to Adelaide, Sydney were clearly outmuscled in away defeats against Richmond and St Kilda.
Swans coach John Longmire consistently preaches the mantra of contested footy and his playing disciples are well aware of what they need to do against the Bulldogs.
“There’s nothing better, a good opportunity to come up against the number one team for contested ball and see where we are at,” Swans small forward and midfielder Ben McGlynn told AAP.
“That’s something that the Swans have been known for over many years, so we need to get back to that style of play.
“Winning the contested footy and playing that hard brand the Swans are known for and it will be a great test.”
Swans ruckman Shane Mumford was listed to return after missing the last six games, though wet weather in Sydney over the weekend could be a factor in whether he plays.
Even if Mumford does play, coach John Longmire stressed he would not spend as much time in the ruck as usual.
Mumford was named on the Swans’ interchange bench, with Canadian Mike Pyke listed as the first-choice ruckman and part-time ruckman Jesse White among the emergencies.
Defender Tony Armstrong has also been recalled.
The Bulldogs (4-5) will have their defence bolstered by the return of Easton Wood and Dylan Addison.
“Pretty solid backline now with the inclusions of Addison (and) Wood when he is down there,” Bulldogs assistant coach Steven King said.
Forward Ayce Cordy is also back after being a late withdrawal last week.
The Bulldogs are looking for their first top eight scalp of the year.
Bulldogs defender Ryan Hargrave will make his 200th appearance, while Sydney back Heath Grundy will tally his 100th and teammate and small forward Lewis Jetta his 50th.
