The AFLW Sydney Swans continue to prepare for a tough away trip down to league leaders and reigning premiers North Melbourne this Sunday afternoon. Read all the top headlines in this week's edition of Red and White News, presented by 7+ Sport.
MORPHETT LEAD SWANS IN COACHES POLL
Sydney Swans ruck Ally Morphett has claimed another 10 votes from the coaches, while four red and white teammates also polled votes following the side's 14-point victory over the Brisbane Lions.
Morphett was instrumental with 27 hitouts, 20 disposals and five tackles, guiding the side to victory at Henson Park.
Midfielder Montana Ham once again was tough and found plenty of the football with 19 touches and five tackles to earn six votes.
Meanwhile, Tanya Kennedy was a physical force to earn four votes with 15 disposals, a game-equal high nine tackles and a crucial goal, while Laura Gardiner was busy with 21 disposals and six tackles to earn two votes, while Cynthia Hamilton was electric in the forward line with two crucial goals and 14 disposals to earn a vote.
CYNTHIA HAMILTON SET TO CELEBRATE 50TH GAME
Cynthia Hamilton is set to mark her 50th game this coming weekend when the Sydney Swans take on North Melbourne down at Arden Street Oval this Sunday afternoon.
The occasion is a special moment for Hamilton and the AFLW program, as she becomes the first player to reach the 50-game milestone, having played all 50 at Sydney.
“Playing 50 games for the Swans is honestly a dream come true,” Hamilton said
“I think also the fact that all of my 50 games have been at the Swans makes it extra special. I have so much faith and love for our team, so doing it alongside the girls means so much, and especially under Colin is super special. [It’s] very exciting times.”
ALEX NEYLAND REMAINS AT SYDNEY UNTIL 2029
Sydney Swans utility Alex Neyland has re-signed with the club, putting pen to paper on a new deal until at least the end of 2029.
Selected with Sydney's first selection and sixth pick overall in last year’s draft, Neyland has been rehabilitating an ACL injury she sustained in pre-season.
“It is always great to keep a QBE Sydney Swans Academy graduate at the club and especially someone as talented as Alex is a fantastic investment into the future,” Acting Executive General Manager – AFLW Football, Amanda Turner said.
“Her attitude towards her rehab and willingness to put in the hard work has been really impressive.
“We believe Alex has a really bright future ahead of her and we look forward to watching her continue to develop over the coming years.”
COLIN O’RIORDAN KEY QUOTES
Sydney Swans AFLW senior coach Colin O'Riordan spoke to the media Wednesday morning ahead of the team's Round 8 fixture against North Melbourne at Arden Street Oval on Sunday afternoon.
“It's a challenge and [North Melbourne has] been the benchmark for the last three years and longer to be honest,” O'Riordan said.
“We know that they're in every position; they have depth everywhere. The challenge is I think if you go to one and you go to someone else; you can look at every position they have, and you can bank on some player. But again, it goes back to us and how we preview them and what gives us the best opportunity.”
INJURY UPDATE
Sofia Hurley has commenced her rehabilitation following her ankle surgery last week, with the Swans co-vice-captain set to miss 7-9 weeks
Meanwhile, Brenna Tarrant, Alice Mitchell and Alex Neyland (knee) continue their season-long rehabilitation.
