With Sydney Derby IX only three sleeps away we’ve been keeping a close eye on what news has been coming from the opposition camp across town.
After defeating Carlton by 60 points last Sunday and beating Collingwood by 80 points a week earlier, Sydney will enter our clash as favourites on Saturday.
Ruckmen Kurt Tippett and Callum Sinclair have the ominous task of taking on GWS star Shane Mumford, with all three men hitting the Sydney Derby in serious form.
Mumford's physical presence was immense in the GIANTS’ 13-point win over Geelong in Canberra, while the Swans pair combined for 33 possessions, 14 marks, six clearances and seven goals against the Blues.
Swans midfielder Harry Cunnington faced the media on Monday and said the ruck dual would be one of many important contests around the ground.
"Cal's (Sinclair) fitted in really well and they've got a nice combo going, him and 'Tippo', but in saying that we really can't get complacent," Cunningham said.
"They've got a big battle this week with Mumford so they'll just take it week by week, but it's good to see them gelling early in the season.
"It's not just (won) on one battle, I don't think. They've got a quality side and have 22 players that play well, so it's going to take 22 of us to turn up to get the win.
"They're (the Giants) fierce at the contest and always apply a lot of pressure around the footy, and we know they've got some good ball users coming out of the back half, and then they've got some big targets forward as well.
"We know they've got quality players all over the ground and it's going to be a big test for us.”
Similarly Swans co-captain Keiren Jack told media on Tuesday the result could come down to the midfield battle.
“We certainly don't underestimate these guys and especially their midfield depth; they've got strong players but it runs pretty deep," Jack said.
"That's where it's going to be won and lost – I'm confident of that.
"Our boys are in good shape. They're in good form, coming up against a really good challenge on the weekend, and what you look forward to is those challenges, and hopefully we can come out on the other end”
In injury news, Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh won’t be making his return from a knee injury against the GIANTS this weekend.
Swans General Manager of Football Tom Harley said this week McVeigh would way the Derby from the sidelines.
“He’s (McVeigh’s) training for condition base now – and he doesn’t need a lot because he’s obviously such a hardened pro,” Harley said.
“He won’t play this week but certainly will have his hand up next week, which will be great for the club.”
The GIANTS play Sydney at the SCG this Saturday at 4.35pm. Tickets available through Ticketek.
