Longmire: We finished really strongly when we returned home.
John Longmire commended his team’s second-half performance following their 30-point victory over Essendon at the SCG in Round 2. The Sydney Swans demonstrated dominance after the break, securing their third win of the season.
Longmire praised his team’s resilience in the face of Essendon’s strong start and highlighted their effective turnover and transition game, which ultimately wore down their opponents and led to late goals, expanding their lead.
“They came out with a clear intent in the physical aspect, as they had discussed during the week,” Longmire remarked. “We were aware of the intensity they intended to bring.”
“In the first half, we perhaps didn’t commit enough numbers to the contest, and they capitalized on the scramble,” he continued. “We needed to improve our contested footy and pressure in the second half, which we did admirably.”
Regarding Harry Cunningham’s early departure from the game due to a collision with Peter Wright, Longmire expressed disappointment and uncertainty about the extent of Cunningham’s injury.
“From our perspective, losing Harry for a while will be disappointing,” Longmire commented. “I’m unsure of the duration, but it’s unfortunate.”
Longmire also lauded the midfield trio of Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, and Errol Gulden for their impressive performances. Heeney led the charge with 32 disposals, eight clearances, and a goal, while Warner and Gulden also contributed significantly.
“Our midfielders collectively stepped up in the second half,” Longmire remarked. “Isaac showcased his fierceness in the contest and provided exceptional run throughout the game, particularly improving as the match progressed.”
“Our focus on contest and defensive efforts laid the foundation for our second-half resurgence,” he added. “Our overall work rate was commendable, driving our strong performance across the ground.”
