Sydney Swans defender Matt Roberts has been named the Opening Round's Rising Star nominee following the side's 22-point win again Melbourne on Thursday night.

The 20-year-old had a career-high 19 disposals (16 kicks and three handballs) at 95 per cent disposal efficiency.

He also had a career high eight marks - the third most on the ground.

In only his eighth game, Roberts was entrusted with the kick-in duties on a number of occasions.

05:27

"I feel like I'm settled down back, and everyone has been supportive" - Roberts

Hear from Matt Roberts after her earned a Rising Star Nomination for his performance in Opening Round.

The South Australian was the 34th pick in the 2021 National Draft, making his debut for the Swans in Round 11 of the 2022 Toyota AFL Premiership Season.

Roberts was drafted from South Adelaide in the SANFL, playing juniors with Langhorne Creek and St Peter's College.

Matt Roberts in the team song after Opening Round

OPENING NIGHT HIGHLIGHTS

  • 00:25

    McDonald takes flight - Opening Round MOTW, presented by Qatar Airways

    Logan McDonald takes a nice grab late in the fourth quarter.

    AFL
    Mark of the Week
  • 00:32

    Florent brilliance - Opening Round GOTW, presented by Origin Energy

    Ollie Florent kicks a magical goal from 50m to open the Sydney Swans account for 2024

    AFL
    Goal of the Week
  • 08:48

    Post-Match Press Conference, Opening Round

    Watch Sydney’s press conference after Opening Round’s match against Melbourne.

    AFL
  • 01:36

    "I love these boys and I love this footy club" - Papley

    Tom Papley reflects on a memorable win at the SCG that saw the club enjoy some special 150 year celebrations.

    AFL
    News
  • 01:50

    Grundy shines against Dees

    Brodie Grundy shines in his first outing for Sydney, winning the battle against ex-teammate Max Gawn in an enthralling contest

    AFL
  • 01:46

    "Some games mean more, and this is one of those" - Blakey

    A proud Nick Blakey reflects on a historic win in Opening Round at the SCG.

    AFL
  • 06:20

    Highlights: Sydney v Melbourne

    The Swans and Demons clash in Opening Round

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  • 00:29

    Team Song: Sydney

    Watch the Swans celebrate their Opening Round win

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  • 00:36

    Warner lights up SCG after hitting one sweet for six

    Chad Warner lifts his side with a stunning effort from outside 50

    AFL
  • 00:43

    McLean makes amends for horror miss

    Hayden McLean squanders a gilt-edged opportunity right in front of goal before sparing his blushes moments later with a major

    AFL
  • 00:47

    Papley picks the drop of the footy to perfection

    Tom Papley scores an electric goal after guiding through a beautiful effort at full pace

    AFL
  • 00:43

    Florent’s freakish running banana opens season in style

    Oliver Florent lands a remarkable first goal to kick off the 2024 Toyota AFL Premiership Season

    AFL
  • 01:19

    Umpires and players unite in touching tribute

    Both clubs and umpires come together to pay respects to AFL goal umpire Jesse Baird and partner Luke Davies

    AFL
  • 01:55

    Opening Round Team Selection, presented by QBE

    Hear from Swans senior coach John Longmire as he goes over the team for our Opening Round clash with Melbourne.

    AFL
    Team Selection
  • 01:09

    Longmire announces Grundy and Jordon debuts

    Go behind the scenes at a team meeting as John Longmire confirms Brodie Grundy and James Jordon will make their club debuts in Opening Round.

    AFL
  • 10:46

    "We know the Demons' strengths, but we can't forget ours either" - Longmire

    Hear from John Longmire as he fronts the media ahead of Opening Round at the SCG on Thursday.

    AFL
  • 00:33

    Horse needs YOU

    Horse has a callout to all of our members ahead of Opening Night at the SCG

    AFL