Star forward Lance Franklin believes an even spread of goal-kickers has been crucial to the Sydney Swans’ success this season and expects that same strength to play a key role in winning Saturday’s Grand Final.

If this season is any indication, the 29-year-old spearhead looms as a game breaker in the huge clash at the MCG having kicked 80 goals from his 25 matches, his largest tally since his Coleman Medal winning season of 2011.

But what’s been most telling is his 17-disposal average, his best numbers since 2012. His extreme athleticism and superb ball skills have been put to good use with Franklin used to great effect further afield.

The move has brought others around him into the game. There was no better example than when Franklin has three score assists to quarter-time of last weekend’s preliminary final against Geelong – equal highest recorded in the first quarter of a final – before kicking a goal himself to cap off an exceptional term.

Speaking to SwansTV this week, Franklin said the more guys applying pressure and hitting the scoreboard on Saturday, the better the team’s chances against the Western Bulldogs.

“I’ve probably found myself higher up the ground more this year than previous years, which I’ve really enjoyed. It’s good to get up there and get a few touches,” he said.

“It’s also good to get others hitting the scoreboard. We’ve had about for our five guys who’ve kicked 20 goals or more this season which we probably haven't had in the last couple of years.

“It's good to have that even spread of goal kickers and we've had midfielders who have been hitting the scoreboard as well.

“It just gives us a different look.”

As grand finals go, the biggest game of the season is usually the toughest with contested possessions going at a premium while the general play is generally congested as the players’ desperation goes up a notch.

With four grand finals under his belt, two successful, Franklin knows all too well the intensity of a decider and believes scoreboard pressure will be also vital.

“It’s a tiring game, a lot of contested possessions and a lot of fatigue in the game,” Franklin added.

“You have to make the most of your opportunities, kick straight and put the pressure back on them.”

Pressure.

It’s a word well associated with grand finals, not only on game day but in the lead up as the commentary surrounding the day increases and enormity of occasion dawns on the group.

Within the Sydney Swans’ potential line-up, there could be up to 10 grand final debutants running out onto the MCG.

Despite that inexperience, Franklin remains confident his younger teammates will handle and adapt well to the “big stage”.

“It's really exciting, there's nothing better than playing in a grand final,” he said.

“I think the build-up is unbelievable. Getting off the flight on Thursday, it really hits you that’s you’re into a grand final.

“Our group has shown this year that they can play on the big stage. We’ve got a lot of young boys but they've delivered so far.

“No doubt we’ll have to play our best but I think our best is good enough.”