The Sydney Swans VFL have started their season with a commanding 41-point victory over Coburg at Tramway Oval on Sunday, March 24.
Ruckman Peter Ladhams made his presence felt down forward with four goals in the season-opening victory, ruling the air with 10 marks to go with 19 disposals.
Youngster Caleb Mitchell, who captained the side for the day, also slotted a goal from 10 marks, as well as finishing with team-highs in disposals (30) and clearances (nine).
"I was happy with how connected the boys were," Sydney Swans VFL coach Damian Truslove said.
"It's something we have been working on over the past couple of weeks.
"We had many good performers on the day in each line group. Our captain for the day, Caleb Mitchell lead from the front with outstanding work ethic and driving high standards."
Experienced AFL contingent Ladhams, Joel Hamling and Sam Reid impressed and provided leadership for some of the younger squad.
Francis had plenty of the ball with 25 touches and a dozen marks, Hamling was also strong overhead with 13 grabs to go with 20 disposals, while veteran Swans big man Sam Reid - who missed the entire 2023 season due to injury - had eight marks, 17 touches and a goal.
First-round draftee Caiden Cleary was strong in the middle of the ground with 27 disposals, eight clearances and a goal, with fellow first-rounder taken one year earlier Jacob Konstanty kicking two goals from 15 touches.
Plenty of other young Swans were also busy: Jaiden Magor (22 disposals, nine marks), Patrick Snell (18 disposals), Will Edwards (18), and Cooper Vickery (13) all getting amongst the action.
"Ladhams, Hamling, Francis and Reid provided great support for our young group," Truslove said.
"Our first year AFL draftees also performed well at the level with Will Green playing ruck/forward, Cleary inside mid and Snell down back."
The Swans will head to Punt Road this Sunday, March 31 for their Round 2 clash with Richmond.
"We look forward to travelling to Melbourne together this weekend to take on an in form Richmond VFL team. They had a good win against GCS on the weekend," Truslove said.
"We will continue to drive high standards including playing a united brand of footy!"
