The Swans have broken through for their first-ever AFLW victory after holding on for a thrilling five-point victory over GIANTS on Sunday.
Swans recruit Chloe Molloy booted the goal that put her new team in front but it took determined defence in the dying stages to clinch the 7.9 (51) to 7.4 (46) triumph at North Sydney Oval.
The GIANTS were in control of the contest until the Swans kickstarted a stirring comeback just before the last change then overpowered their crosstown rivals early in the final term.
Molloy helped spark the Swans on the brink of three-quarter-time with a checkside goal that ensured the hosts took all the momentum into the final term on their way to a first-up win in their second season.
The former Collingwood star finished with 13 disposals and six tackles to go with two majors to make an immediate impact in her Swans debut.
Ally Morphett (18 disposals, one goal, 29 hitouts) was combative for the Swans and booted their opening goal in a performance that hinted at a breakout season for the towering ruck and forward target.
Rebecca Privitelli was another Swan to hit the scoreboard against her former club with two majors including the first of the final term, while Montana Beruldsen booted a goal with her first kick in her debut.
Skipper Alicia Eva (21 disposals) was outstanding for the GIANTS, winning the ball at stoppages and controlling their set up around the ground in a critical role until the Swans surged late.
Despite the loss, Georgia Garnett looks on track to become the GIANTS’ next cult hero with a bright orange headband and a crafty ability to find space inside the forward 50 while slotting two goals.
Onballer Alyce Parker was also damaging during resting periods near goal and finished with one goal to go with 22 disposals, while Tarni Evans offered plenty of drive out of defence with 19 kicks.
Parker key to unlocking GIANTS’ firepower
It was a new-look GIANTS forward line without retired focal point Cora Staunton, with Georgia Garnett taking the reins as the key target. But the addition of resting onballer Alyce Parker closer to goal could be the crucial point of difference for the GIANTS, with the dual All-Australian booting one goal and having a hand in two others to inflict damage where it counts most.
SYDNEY 0.2 2.3 5.5 7.9 (51)
GIANTS 1.3 4.3 7.4 7.4 (46)
GOALS
Swans: Molloy 2, Privitelli 2, Beruldsen, Morphett, Newman
GIANTS: Garnett 2, Barr, Beeson, Brazendale, Parker, Zreika
BEST
Swans: Morphett, Molloy, McEvoy, Gardiner, Privitelli, Steane, Hurley
GIANTS: Eva, Evans, Parker, Garnett, Barr, Beeson
INJURIES
Swans: Nil
GIANTS: Nil
Crowd: 5,474 at North Sydney Oval
