Swans Roster Revamped for Dockers Duel
Key Players Return to Bolster Sydney’s Lineup
Ahead of their crucial match against **Fremantle**, the **Sydney Swans** have announced significant changes to their roster, aiming for a decisive victory at the SCG this Sunday. Three pivotal players are set to return to the field.
Key Inclusions
**Dean Cox**, senior coach, confirmed that key forward **Joel Amartey**, defender **Tom McCartin**, and utility **Joel Hamling** will be back in action. These inclusions come at the expense of **Dane Rampe**, sidelined with a calf injury; **Aaron Francis**, serving a suspension; and **Oli Florent**, who has been omitted from the squad.
**McCartin**’s return is particularly significant, as he was a late withdrawal from the previous game against the **Western Bulldogs** due to illness. According to official sources, **Cox** stated, “He will slot straight back in and they’ve (Fremantle) got three or four really dangerous talls, and he’ll be really crucial to line up on one of those.”
**Amartey** will assume the full forward position, having recovered from a hamstring issue sustained during the Round 15 victory over **Port Adelaide**. The coach added, “He has the ability to come up at the footy to provide a really strong contest ahead of the ball.”
**Hamling** earns his spot following a strong performance in the VFL, showcasing consistency both in front of and behind the ball.
Focus on Consistency
**Cox** has emphasized the need for greater consistency as they face a formidable **Fremantle** side. He noted adjustments in **Fremantle**’s ball movement since their previous encounter. Currently, the Dockers are riding a six-game winning streak. Only 20% of AFL teams that start a season 7-3 make the top four, highlighting the importance of every game Stats Insider 2024.
**Cox** added, “They’ve (Fremantle) been really dangerous. Their ball movements changed a little bit, which is something we’ve looked at since our first game we played them…They’ve won six in a row. They’re going into some good form and they get some real variety through their mids and forwards.”
The coach pinpointed **Shai Bolton** and **Luke Jackson** as key players to watch in the midfield, stressing the importance of quelling their influence and applying pressure to force turnovers.
The team will be wearing their 2025 Marn Grook Guernsey for the game, celebrating NAIDOC Week.
Additionally, Round 16 offers free entry for kids with the purchase of an eligible adult ticket, making it an ideal family outing.