Sydney Swans legend Ryan O’Keefe has openly criticised his former team following their narrow defeat to the Brisbane Lions in a grand final rematch, labelling the performance as “not AFL standard.” The Swans lost by a mere four points, finishing 12.14 (86) to Brisbane’s 12.10 (82), leaving them with an unflattering 0-2 start to the season. O’Keefe, who was part of the Swans’ premiership squads in 2005 and 2012, went on to express that players should not be given excuses for basic errors, stating that professionalism should dictate a higher standard of play.
Despite the loss, new head coach Dean Cox maintained a positive outlook in his post-match address, highlighting improvements yet acknowledging the team’s need for greater precision, particularly in their disposals and goal-scoring attempts. The game saw the Swans begin strong with a 15-point lead at quarter-time, but missed opportunities—including simple set shots by Tom McCartin and Will Hayward—stymied their potential for a more significant lead.
In a critical moment late in the game, while trailing by ten points, Corey Warner failed to secure a straightforward mark, which proved costly as Brisbane capitalised on Sydney’s mistakes. Furthermore, a poor kick-in from Matt Roberts directly led to a goal for Brisbane, extending their advantage.
Notable performances from Sydney saw strong physical play from James Rowbottom, Isaac Heeney, and Justin McInerney, yet many Swans players struggled with decision-making, opting for incorrect shots instead of looking for more viable options. During the press conference, Cox noted the slippery conditions affecting gameplay and emphasized the necessity of mastering fundamentals in challenging weather.
Looking ahead, Sydney will aim to secure their first victory of the season against Fremantle next Sunday. Cox expressed confidence in his team’s ability, stating that when they perform at their best, they can compete with any side in the league. He acknowledged lapses that allowed opponents to gain momentum and urged his players to maintain focus throughout the match.
As Brisbane prepares to defend their premiership against the West Coast Eagles next week, Sydney’s next game presents an opportunity for redemption and necessary improvements. O’Keefe’s stern admonition serves as a reminder of the high expectations that accompany the Swans’ legacy.