AFL Ruckman Brodie Grundy Was Made For The Bloods
0
0
Over 40, 000 AFL fans packed the SCG for the Sydney Swans vs Melbourne Demons opening round of the 2024 season. What were the main takeaways from this novel opening match. AFL ruckman Brodie Grundy was made for the Bloods and played with real heart and soul to get them over the line. He nullified Max Gawn as the game went on and put in a massive last quarter to turn the tide the Swans way. Grundy had 22 disposals, 15 contested, 9 clearances, 6 tackles, 4 marks and 31 hit outs. Sydney defeated Melbourne 12.14 to 9.10. The Demons had outscored the Swans in the third term to threaten their chances of victory.
“The clash between Grundy and former teammate Max Gawn was a pivotal duel even if it took until the last term for it to greatly influence the result as Sydney surged late to clinch a 22-point triumph over Melbourne in the season-opener on Thursday night.”
- (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1082826/afl-match-report-sydney-swans-v-melbourne-demons-opening-round)
Grundy Excelled In The Ruck For Sydney Against Gawn
Isaac Heeney played in the middle, as the big bodied mid the Swans so needed. He was a big part of why they won this match. Sydney went into this game without Luke Parker and Callum Mills. Early on they were outmuscled and outbodied in the middle by Melbourne. Viney, Oliver, and Petracca were dominant out of the centre in the first half. The Demons seemed poised to possibly over run Sydney, as they did in round 24 last year. That this did not eventuate was on the back of Grundy, Heeney, and a lift by the whole Blood’s team in the final quarter.
“Bayley Fritsch booted four goals for the Demons, including three in a blistering third term that looked like turning the match in the visitors’ favour.”
- (Martin Pegan)
Sydney Swans Beat Melbourne In Opening AFL Round
Chad Warner really picked up his effectiveness in that last term, as did Gulden on the wing. Nick Blakey was a standout performer breaking the lines and delivering the ball deep into attack on numerous occasions. It was a slippery night and the ball was like a big red oval of soap. Hardly anyone could hold a mark, especially anyone over 184 cm. Logan McDonald finished with a goal but was well held by the big Demon defence for much of the match. It was not a night for big forwards at either end. It was a humid evening more suited to players like Papley and Rowbottom. Hayden McLean managed a couple of goals and supported Grundy well in the ruck. Sam Wicks came on late and played like a real senior footballer kicking a goal and applying pressure up forward.
Grundy Plays Like A Ruck Rover & Competes Hard
Brodie Grundy plays like an old style ruck rover and is just what the doctor ordered for the Swans in the middle. As a longtime follower of the Swan’s fortunes the team has been lacking this kind of physical presence for at least a decade in the ruck. Grundy himself said in an interview last night – it is only one match – but hallelujah the much needed big man has arrived at last! Brodie plays with real intent and he got better as the night went on. Not even a blue bottle sting behind the ear on the morning of the match could stop Brodie from playing his heart out! Melbourne were tough and played hard to make this a hard fought victory.
Good Signs For Swans Going Forward In 2024 Season
James Jordon, the former Dee, tried hard and showed signs of becoming a valuable acquisition into the Swans lineup. Dane Rampe was good down back directing forays forward on the back of his experience. Lewis Melican got better as the game wore on. Ollie Florent was good early on and never stopped contributing. Will Hayward popped up in the second half for a couple of valuable goals. Justin McInerney played hard and never shirked a contest. There were good signs from Matt Roberts as a young player with a future for Sydney.
It Was Hot In Sin City Tonight
It was a hot, humid and slippery night at the SCG for the AFL opener and Sydney got the chocolates in the end. It was a hard in and under type of contest. The Bloods wanted to win more in that last quarter. It was a celebration of 150 years of South Melbourne/Sydney and a legion of past greats were at the game for a special function. Names like Greg Williams, Peter Bedford, Graham Teasdale, and Paul Kelly – all Brownlow Medal winners – were in attendance. Coach John Longmire was proud as punch in the end at the efforts of his young charges. A great victory over a quality opponent.
©WordsForWeb
Big shoes to be filled!!!
