After just falling short against Collingwood, Sydney Swans coach John Longmire believes his side learnt valuable lessons in a gallant effort from his side.

Whilst some errors late in the match played a part in his side’s loss, Longmire lauded his side’s competitiveness against a strong opposition. 

“I thought we were a chance to have a look there - we got within two points and thought we had a bit of momentum in the last quarter,” Longmire said.

“If you get within two points towards the end you’ve got every chance. It was disappointing that we made a couple of blues in that last five minutes, which meant we didn’t get it done.”

Longmire also noted that the loss wasn’t without valuable takeaways for his young side as they remained competitive against a quality opposition in Collingwood throughout the match. 

“We were beaten in the clearances - the difference in midfield experience was pretty significant and sometimes you have to learn the hard way, we certainly learnt from an a grade quality midfield tonight,” Longmire said.

“If you lose the clearances you end up playing in the back half, and we struggled to get it out of there. Up the other end we were able to score quite effectively…we just didn’t contest the ground balls around the arcs - we’ve got a bit of work to do offensively and defensively.”

Longmire was pleased by the performance of debutant Sam Wicks, picking up nine disposals, six tackles and a goal to start his AFL career.

“I thought his pressure was good - we put him in the side to hurry the opposition which I thought he did well at times - we need to get the ball in our forward half to give him those opportunities to pressure,” Longmire said. 

“He kicked a goal which was pleasing and it’s good to get another young fella in the team.”

James Rowbottom’s composure against more experienced opposition also impressed Longmire, picking up 17 disposals and seven clearances.

“He’s a quality midfielder - when you’re up against guys like Treloar and Adams - he holds his head up and competes well," Longmire said.

"He’s got a bit more experience than his games would suggest."